Oyster Winter 2017 // Issue 80

WINTER 2017 // ISSUE 80

OYSTER WORLD RALLY

IN BUILD

OYSTER REGATTAS

OYSTER OWNERS

Leg one of the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally from Antigua to New Zealand.

The stories so far.

Design and technical innovations at Oyster. Find out more about the new 835 and 895.

Family friendly racing at our BVI and Palma regattas. Next stop Bermuda!

Inspiring stories from our owners’ sailing adventures.

WROXHAM SOUTHAMPTON

RUSSIA IPSWICH NEWPORT PALMA

// CONTENTS

// NEWS 03 04 84

Foreword Oyster News New Arrivals

// EVENTS 06 17 38 41 51 103

Events Programme Oyster World Rally 2017-19 Oyster Regatta BVI 2017 Oyster Regatta Palma 2017 Oyster Regatta Bermuda 2018 Our Regatta Partners

// OWNERS’ STORIES 07 11 23 30 34

Oyster 625: Vamos Oyster 46: Sea Rover Oyster World Rally Participants Oyster 575: Safiya Oyster 66: Elise

// FLEET 53 54 56 58 62 66 68

In Build: Design & Technical Innovations Transom & Keel Options 5 Year Warranty & New Engineering Latest Oyster Superyachts 35 Years of Special Projects Future Projects Fleet Review

// CHARTER 86

Charter Listings

// CREW 90

Oyster Crew

// BROKERAGE 91

Brokerage Listings

// CONTACT 104

Contact Us

FRONT COVER Oyster 675 at sunset in Palma (see page 74 for further details) Photo: Mike Jones, Waterline Media INSIDE FRONT COVER Oyster 885, Firebird, in Norway (see page 87 for charter details) Photo: Mike Jones, Waterline Media THIS PAGE Oyster 885s, Firebird & Bacchus at Oyster Regatta Palma 2017 (see page 41 for full regatta report) Photo: Nico MartĂ­nez, MartĂ­nez Studios EDITOR Eleanor Briggs CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Kathryn Archer Louay Habib Sam Kirk FROM THE EDITOR We know from our readers that the articles they most enjoy reading in the Oyster magazine are the contributions from Oyster owners.

If you have a story to tell or information about cruising in your Oyster please let us know.

Photographs are always welcome.

E: marketing@oysteryachts.com The Oyster magazine is published by Oyster Marine Limited with design by Sarah Gange and Interstate Creative Partners. The publication is for promotional purposes only, privately circulated, and cannot form part of any contract or offer. Views, details and information herein are therefore not necessarily endorsed by the publisher who will not be held responsible for the consequences of any error or omission. Pictures and illustrations are liable to show non-standard equipment.

// WELCOME

issue 80 Welcome to the winter 2017 edition of our Oyster magazine. This is our 80th publication, celebrating our 45th year of yacht-building and numerous owners’ adventures across the world’s oceans.

We calculated from looking at the logs of brokerage yachts and from data in the service and support teams, that Oyster owners have sailed at least 20 million offshore miles, perhaps even 30 million. There are nearly 75 circumnavigations within that and soon that will be more than 100.

What an amazing set of statistics and more importantly, what a fantastic endorsement of the quality and design of the yachts we build.

One of the participants of the Oyster World Rally wrote to the rest of the fleet in October 2017 as they neared Auckland for the end of the Pacific crossing and I quote: “It is hard to find new words to describe the experiences of the last year - ordinary people doing extraordinary things. The courage, kindness, generosity, fun, humour and friendship that we have experienced has been awe-inspiring.”

Tracking the Oyster World Rally fleet from Fiji to Auckland

As I read this it brought a wonderful feeling of being able to share experiences.

It’s such a privilege to feel connected to the owners on their great adventures. The

It has been a pleasure to shape this Oyster magazine around both

team running the World Rally has done a brilliant job and the decision to extend

the adventures of owners and their families sailing the oceans

the rally to 27 months has created new options. Nearly 20 yachts are starting the

and the examples of the care, innovation and attention to detail in

next leg of the circumnavigation in April 2018 from New Zealand. The others are

the yachts we are building. Also, well done to Eleanor Briggs for

determinedly staying in the Pacific for another year and we’ll help to guide them

compiling this edition, her first Oyster magazine.

home later.

Keep sending the tales of your adventures please, we love to As I write we have 34 families expressing interest in the next World Rally starting

share them.

in January 2021. A couple even asked about the event in 2025! Some don’t yet own an Oyster but such is the awareness of the exclusive opportunity the World Rally

Safe sailing.

presents, that they are making firm plans. We’ve issued entry forms and two have already signed up for the the now nick-named ‘Class of ’21’.

‘Ordinary people doing extraordinary things’ also applies to the staff at Oyster – across the board – from the design teams to the shopfloor, the dedication and enthusiasm for what we do continues to distinguish Oyster from competitors.

David Tydeman, CEO Oyster Group

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 3

OYSTER NEWS OYSTER SCOOP DOUBLE AWARD The new Oyster 565 was commended with the top spot after being nominated as Best Luxury Cruiser in the Sailing Today Awards 2017. Designed with heritage and quality with a Superyacht feel, the 565’s versatility, style and reputation of being the perfect family yacht all played a key part to ensure recognition from admiring voters, making her a very worthy winner of such an accolade. With six sold in four months, the Oyster 565 is proving to be very popular.

It wasn’t just the yachts themselves receiving all the glory…

Oyster CEO David Tydeman was announced the winner of Sailing Today’s ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’.

NEW SPONSORSHIP WITH THE JUBILEE SAILING TRUST In October 2017 we announced our partnership with the international charity, the Jubilee Sailing Trust (JST). The trust has become world-renowned for tall ship sailing adventures that are inclusive for people of all physical and sensory abilities.

These voyages integrate people with disabilities with those that are able-bodied, breaking down barriers and changing perceptions around disability.

This activity in helping disadvantaged individuals is complementary to our other investments in people – for example, apprenticeship programmes.

By great coincidence, the facility in which we are now moulding the second Oyster 118 is where JST built their ship Tenacious years ago – it feels like serendipity!

For more information about the Jubilee Sailing Trust, please visit: http://jst.org.uk

OYSTER CREW This summer saw the exciting launch of Oyster Crew, our new official crew search and placement service exclusive to Oyster Yachts. Oyster have formalised the recruitment process primarily so that a more refined and thorough service can be offered to you, our owners, and we can endeavour to place the right crew first time around. Managing the crew database and interviewing processes is Charlie Durham, based in our Palma office. Charlie will be happy to help with any of your crewing enquiries. More details on the Oyster Crew service can be found on page 90. Oyster Crew is an MCA certified Recruitment and Placement Agency in accordance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006).

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SALES TEAM EXPANSION We are pleased to announce the expansion of our Sales Team with the appointment of Christian Russwurm who will be our Sales Representative for Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

A keen sailor, Christian has cruised extensively around the Mediterranean, Channel Islands and in UK waters, and the west coast of Scotland is a favourite destination. He keeps his own sailing boat in Croatia, where he enjoys family holidays with his wife and children.

We hope you will join us in welcoming him into the Oyster family.

OYSTER EXPANDS ITS SHIPYARD IN SOUTHAMPTON In January 2017, we announced that the company had signed the contract to build the second Oyster 118 and associated with this, would be looking to expand the shipyard facilities in Southampton to be able to offer an earlier delivery date for 118-03 and 118-04.

Contracts have now been signed for an additional 25,000 sq ft of shed space, just a few hundred meters away from the Saxon Wharf facility and the mould tooling for the Oyster 118 was successfully installed in this new facility during April 2017.

Moulding for 118-03 and 04 can now be brought forward such that a delivery for 118-03 can be early 2021 – a year earlier than previously possible.

MORE OYSTER OWNERS IN PRINT As previously featured in the Oyster magazine, Caspar and Nichola Craven created a plan in 2009 to sail around the world with their young children. Over the past seven years they’ve embraced every moment of this momentous chapter of their lives. It’s a story of a fabulous sailing adventure but it is so much more than that; it is an inspirational tale for all those wishing they could do the same, it’s a practical guide to show you just how you can make it happen, it’s a motivational story of leadership and teamwork within a family and it’s a funny, heart-warming tale of slightly unconventional family life.

The book ‘Where the Magic Happens’ is now available for pre-order, for more information visit: www.casparcraven.com

MARINE APPRENTICE IS AOC WINNER One of our apprentices, Danielle Thomas, has won the Apprentice of the Year award in the Association of Colleges (AOC) Student of the Year Awards 2017. Student of the Year finalists have used their achievements and talents to give back and positively impact their college and/or community.

Danielle played an important role in two high profile projects outside of her apprenticeship which included building two docking RIBs for Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR) and restoring a medieval cargo ship in the city. She has strived to complete her work to the highest standard and accuracy, setting an example to her classmates.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 5

EVENTS PROGRAMME JANUARY 2018 // BOOT DÜSSELDORF 20TH - 28TH JANUARY

FEBRUARY 2018 // T HE SUPERYACHT CHALLENGE, ANTIGUA 31ST JANUARY - 4TH FEBRUARY

// STRICTLY SAIL MIAMI 15TH - 19TH FEBRUARY

APRIL 2018 // OYSTER PRIVATE VIEW, ST. KATHARINE DOCKS 4TH - 8TH APRIL

MAY 2018 CONTINUED

// ANTIGUA WEEK (OYSTER CLASS) 28TH APRIL - 4TH MAY

MAY 2018 // ANTIGUA - BERMUDA RACE START (OYSTER CLASS) 9TH MAY

// OYSTER BROKERAGE SHOW, IPSWICH 18TH - 20TH MAY

// LONDON ON-WATER SHOW 10TH - 12TH MAY

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// UNITED STATES SAILBOAT SHOW, ANNAPOLIS 4TH - 8TH OCTOBER

JUNE 2018 // T HE SUPERYACHT CUP, PALMA 19TH - 23RD JUNE

// HAMBURG INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW DATE TBC

NOVEMBER 2018

// OYSTER REGATTA UK, ROYAL SOUTHERN YACHT CLUB 25TH - 29TH JUNE

// ARC+ START, CAPE VERDE 11TH NOVEMBER

AUGUST 2018 // S YDNEY INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW DATE TBC

SEPTEMBER 2018 // PALMA SUPERYACHT SHOW 27TH APRIL - 1ST MAY

OCTOBER 2018

// OYSTER REGATTA BERMUDA 21ST - 26TH MAY

// CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL 11TH - 16TH SEPTEMBER

// N EWPORT INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 13TH - 16TH SEPTEMBER

// ARC START, LAS PALMAS 25TH NOVEMBER

FUTURE EVENTS:

APRIL 2019 // OYSTER WORLD RALLY FINISH DATE TBC

SUMMER 2020 In summer 2020 we will be creating a cruise in company and an Oyster Regatta within the 300-year-old celebration in Cork of the oldest yacht club in the world – the Royal Cork Yacht Club.

// SOUTHAMPTON INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 14TH - 23RD SEPTEMBER

JANUARY 2021

// OYSTER REGATTA PALMA 25TH - 29TH SEPTEMBER

// OYSTER WORLD RALLY START, ANTIGUA DATE TBC

All dates correct at the time of print.

To check for schedule updates please visit:

oysteryachts.com/events

// OWNER STORY

VAMOS IN THE BIG APPLE

DAVID & JOANNE FURBY OYSTER 625 // VAMOS Vamos was designed to accommodate our five strong family as well as to offer a flexible cabin space for chartering. We asked a lot. To cross oceans, compete in regattas, provide luxury accommodation and help cover some of her own running costs by chartering in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

WORDS & PHOTOS BY DAVID & JOANNE FURBY

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 7

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“BERMUDA TO NEW YORK WAS A FOUR DAY, 600 MILE SAIL. CROSSING THROUGH THE VIBRANT BLUE WATERS OF THE GULF STREAM AND SPOTTING HAMMERHEAD SHARKS AND PILOT WHALES AS WE APPROACHED THE SHIPPING LANES TO THE BIG APPLE.”

Vamos racing in Oyster Regatta BVI

Vamos racing in Oyster Regatta BVI

Our adventures have included exploring southern England and Europe, crossing the Atlantic in the ARC, discovering the Caribbean and, rather less enjoyably, traversing the Mediterranean in November (I won’t be doing that again!). The past 12 months though have been the most exciting and stimulating of all, culminating in attending the America’s Cup finals in Bermuda and then sailing on to New York in time for the Fourth of July celebrations.

Bermuda to New York was a four day, 600 mile sail. Crossing through the vibrant blue waters of the Gulf Stream and spotting hammerhead sharks and pilot whales as we approached the shipping lanes to the Big Apple.

We approached the city at sunset permitting a tempting glimpse of the Manhattan skyline through the evening mist. This was a long planned trip and we were determined to get some iconic shots of Vamos as she headed up the Hudson River and past the Statue of Liberty. We anchored off Coney Island for the night, from where we could watch the lights from the fun fair. Being 2nd July, the Empire State Building was lit up with the red, white and blue of the Stars and Stripes.

We set off up river at about 7.30am. Going under the Verrazno-Narrows Bridge. Steaming up the Hudson River we started to make out the skyscrapers and then the modest outline of the Statue of Liberty.

Then – typically! – the United States Coast Guard motored up alongside and requested to board us over a loud megaphone. Cruising permits were checked, bilges inspected for any undeclared guests and clarification was made that once we had docked we needed to go straight to clear customs.

From then on it was bliss.

We all donned our Vamos t-shirts. David and I got into the RIB with camera and phone (having to sit on four days’ worth of rubbish sacks from the transit) the sun shone and the sky was blue. The wind was even in the right direction! The rest of the crew got all of the sail out in the perfect breeze and the early morning river was clear of the normal tourist chaos.

It was as wonderful as our photos suggest. >>

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 9

We had booked a berth weeks before, at the North Cove Marina which Jenna our hostess had described as expensive but very close to the action… what an understatement. We could not believe that you could moor your boat in Downtown Manhattan. We were less than 200m from the World Trade Center memorial. The brand new One World Trade Center building towered over us and we had free access to the city straight from the boat.

We walked to the Brooklyn Bridge in 20 minutes – having our own luxury accommodation in the centre of New York suddenly seemed like very good value indeed.

As I write now, we are on our second trip to the East Coast of America.

Starting in Newport, Rhode Island. The J Class yachts and so many of the other famous racing yachts were present and all getting ready for their

Martha’s Vineyard was our next stop. Aquinnah had a sandy beach and delicious ‘Hole

regattas. We popped into the Oyster office in the Newport Shipyard to see

in the Wall’ food. We had a fish sandwich from ‘The Bite’ and ate it sitting on the sea wall.

old friends Molly, Will and Dan, who run the charter fleet and support

As we walked around the little harbour, things started to look strangely familiar though.

and sell Oysters on the other side of the pond. It’s always very reassuring

There were rusty fishing boats festooned with tackle and fishermen gutting their catch on

to know that you can get help and a bit of local knowledge when you’re

their pontoons. Then it clicked…'Jaws' was filmed here.

away and great to have somewhere to get spares sent to.

Our next stops will be The Cape Cod Canal, whale watching and stepping ashore at Plymouth Next we visited Cuttyhunk Island. Beautiful, peaceful and seemingly

Rock just like the Founding Fathers and then off to the delights of Boston. We still want to

trapped in the 1950s. Most of the other tourists seemed to be there

visit the witch city of Salem and Nantucket Island but that will have to be left for next time.

fishing, hoping to catch the enormous striped bass featured in faded local

The area is full of history, wildlife and lobster pots and the climate is very much like the UK

photos. We bought fresh lobster and steamers (giant clams steamed in the

(perhaps a little warmer). There are lots of places to stop and explore and plenty of adventures

shell) from a shack on the quay for dinner and watched the sunset while

to be had. We have had a wonderful time here and would thoroughly recommend it!

others barbequed on the shingle beach. Our adventures have taught us how rare it is to be able to have a fire and a barbeque on a beach, so this was a lovely sight!

10 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

For more photos of their adventures, search for Yacht Vamos on Facebook.

// OWNER STORY

MEMORIES OF THE PACIFIC

MIKE & DEVALA ROBINSON OYSTER 46 // SEA ROVER When Mike and Devala Robinson set off in their new Oyster 46 to sail around the world they thought they would be home within four years, if they took their time. To their – and everyone else’s – surprise they spent nine years circumnavigating. The following journal extracts help to explain what took them so long and the seven years they spent cruising in the South Pacific.

WORDS & PHOTOS BY MIKE & DEVALA ROBINSON

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 11

EASTER ISLAND Much of our cruising has followed established routes, but we will never regret sailing south to Easter Island, an island of more questions than answers.

We were one of only four cruising yachts there and often had anchorages like Anakena Bay all to ourselves, where we could look at the backs of the moai (statues) from the sea. They are located where a village once was.

R a n o R a ra ku A

The moai ‘factory’ on the island, the volcano Rano Raraku, almost defies words. There are literally hundreds of moai in various states and positions all over the place. It becomes a bit like a child’s game of

Bay nakena

‘spot the moai’. Some of these giants (and they can be up to 22m) look as if they are merely sleeping and will soon awake.

The wild weather and no all-round anchorage meant we had to move five times in three weeks. As we left Easter Island Sea Rover celebrated her first birthday, the rewards were becoming far greater than we could have imagined.

Ahu Tongariki

TUAMOTUS

TONGA

We headed for French Polynesia where, in the Tuamotus, the twin attractions of pearls and diving lived up to expectations.

Fakarava is an enormous atoll 40 miles long. In South Fakarava there is only one pass resulting in tremendous currents which the local sharks, the benign reef, nurse,

A n c h o re d o ff N u k u p u le I sl a n d

black and white tip varieties, all utilise to ‘chill out’ using the Venturi effect that the current creates.

There we were at some 20+ metres underwater, hanging onto rock to prevent being swept into the atoll too fast with literally hundreds of sharks, it took some getting used to.

Nu kup ule Isl and

We had timed being in Tonga for the annual migration of humpback

Pouheva, Makemo atoll

whales. We saw whales nearly everyday but nothing topped one Monday when from our anchorage outside the reef we spotted a mother humpback teaching her calf to breach. When we realised they were swimming parallel with the boat, there was only one thing to do – swimming kit and snorkels on!

At first there was nothing and then we gradually saw a shape appearing, and there she was in all her glory swimming alongside

Passe Tumakohua , Fakarava

us as we finned along holding hands just feet away. The experience almost defying description. Mondays don’t get much better.

to ll M a k em o a 12 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

FIJI – LAU ISLANDS Fulaga is often described as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Fiji’s Lau Islands. Golden sandy beaches, great diving and snorkelling and a large lagoon scattered with mushroom like motus.

This means that, despite its popularity, you

Fu la ga la go o n

can usually find an anchorage to yourself and a friendly village ashore.

As so often happens in the Pacific islands, a

Na roc ak e

family invited us to Sunday lunch where the topic of cannibalism came up, hard to avoid in this part of the world. The photo to the left, labelled Narocake, shows Meli Yasabalavu, our host, holding one of the skulls amongst human remains. He said they were from enemies killed and eaten by his ancestors, a clan of renowned

D a n c e, Fa re w e ll ake M u a n a ic

warriors who were cannibals until the mid/late nineteenth century.

A n c h o re d o ff N a iv id a m u Vil la ge

SYDNEY

VANUATU One luxury of the seven years we spent in the Pacific was that we could plan to visit countries based on what was happening on land.

We timed our arrival in Vanuatu for their festival season. One of our highlights has to be the festival on Ambryn. The finale, the Rom Dance, was like something from a National Geographic magazine. A deep, low throbbing that gradually became louder came from the forest. Slowly the dancers, men only, appeared in their costumes, that had been months in the preparation. It now became evident that the throbbing was not drums but their feet pounding the earth in unison.

We felt very lucky and privileged to have witnessed such a special event.

Sy dn ey Op era Ho us e, Ne w Ye ar ’s Ev e

H ou se S yd n ey O pe ra

We were lucky enough to spend two New Year’s Eves on the water in Sydney Harbour – upwind of their breath-taking fireworks.

Back to My Roo ts Festival, North Ambrym

Amazed that they are free, as is anchoring in the harbour’s numerous bays and coves which offer protection from the weather.

Sitting on your own yacht in Farm Cove by the Sydney Opera House

oo ts Fe st iv al , B ac k to M y R N or th A m br ym

takes some beating. We never tired of sailing under the Harbour Bridge and watching the ever-changing colour of the tiles on the ‘sails’ that form the roof of the Sydney Opera House.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 13

TASMANIA We usually agree on where we should sail and how long we should stay, but not always! Suffice to say that, left to himself, Mike would probably still be in Tasmania’s Port Davey, a marine reserve on the southwest corner of the island. Getting there took patience, as several gale force fronts forced us to run for shelter but we were rewarded with a largely

Underwater shot, Port Davey

pristine series of inlets, where sea water is diluted until at its furthest reaches, notably Bathurst Harbour, you are anchoring in predominantly fresh water. The water is stained by tannins from local vegetation making it of great scientific interest as the fauna and flora below the surface usually

E ar ly m or ni ng to ps ho t, Por t D av ey , Ta sm an ia

only exist at much greater depths.

Back in Hobart we made several visits to MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art which often exhibits pieces from different centuries next to each other. The specially built underground gallery houses the eclectic private collection of David Walsh who made his millions with a gambling syndicate. Walsh has described his creation as a subversive adult Disneyland.

MONA, H ob ar t

NEW ZEALAND Aucklanders have one of the best cruising grounds in the form of the Hauraki Gulf on their doorstep. It’s a well-kept secret with most people only having heard of the Bay of Islands. Don’t get us wrong, it’s a nice area, but we’d rather sail in the Hauraki Gulf any time. The anchorages are too numerous to mention and, if you avoid the high season after Christmas, you can often have the best anchorages all to yourself.

New Zealand isn’t just about sailing. The scenery ashore is varied and spectacular from the bubbling sulphur springs of Rotorua

North Island Hauraki Gulf,

to the glaciers of the South Island, volcanoes and the Southern Alps. So much of it deserted by European standards. Sadly, the

South Isla nd

downside of all this geothermal activity was the devastation caused by the Christchurch earthquakes from which the country is still recovering.

No time in New Zealand would be complete without discovering the range of their excellent wines, many made in boutique vineyards producing too little to export. The country abounds with more wine regions and varieties than we realised, not just the ubiquitous gooseberry sauvignon blancs and fruit bomb pinot noirs.

Throughout the country we received nothing but the warmest of welcomes from the Kiwis we met. We lost count of meals

Nelson Lakes National Park

we’ve eaten, cars or houses offered on loan. We can now say we have a whole set of real friends in Kiwiland. The support we and Sea Rover received being part of what enabled us to spend so long in the Pacific.

14 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Se a Ro ve r cru isi ng in to th e ni gh t...

OUR FAVOURITE PLACE After nine years circumnavigating, there is one question we hate ‘What is your favourite place?’ We would happily revisit any of the places we’ve been in the Pacific in a heartbeat, but if really pushed, we would have to confess to having left a piece of our hearts on a small Fijian island – Matuku. More specifically with the people of one of its villages – Lomati.

Fiji’s Lau Islands in the southeast of the country, closed for so long and only freely open to yachts since 2012, have been described as the offspring of a marriage between the Tuamotus and the Marquesas with their lush green hills and fringing coral reefs.

Matuku is no exception. We have visited Lomati on several occasions and now know so many people it’s impossible to walk through the village without invitations to come in, sit down and have something to eat or drink. From the outset, we received a wonderful welcome – gifts of fish, fruit, vegetables, handicrafts and invitations to Sunday lunch; all with no expectation of anything from us in return. It really touched us in a way that is hard to describe. It was the warmest welcome we received on our travels through the islands of the South Pacific.

We did what we could to reciprocate – sailed people overnight to the capital Suva, been the local coffee shop in the bay and brought supplies back from Suva for the village shop. So maybe in some small way our friends in Lomati also thought of Sea Rover as their boat. The island’s senior pastor certainly did, we had sailed Tavita and Metui, his apprentice, to the Methodist Conference in the capital. Whilst the trainee’s prayers were only answered when he was safely back on dry land, Tavita relished helming Sea Rover (dressed in combat gear, as pictured below left, his warmest jacket) and is still dining out on having arrived by yacht!

Even so, we did have some worries about going back in 2015, would we spoil the memories from the three trips we had made in 2014? Would they even remember us?

It was a chance that we felt we wanted to take, but we needn’t have worried.

We realised people had heard we were coming (in fact a couple who had got engaged when we were last there, Luke and Ana, were cooking dinner for us on the first night) but we certainly weren’t expecting to be greeted in the pass by Moape in his fibreglass boat waving and shouting ‘Bula’ the greeting you hear throughout Fiji. We nearly ran him down, not sure he appreciated that going through passes with coral reefs on either side is not something we find relaxing. We certainly don’t want to be playing ‘chicken’ with local boats as we adhere to our previous safe tracks through what can be navigation nightmares. We hadn’t even got our anchor fully set and the engine off before Luke and his friend Jese were aboard with the warmest of greetings, not to mention disbelief that we were back; followed shortly by Moape for coffee and biscuits.

We were carrying several boxes of reading glasses, cleaned, graded and sorted by the Lions Clubs as part of their International Recycle for Sight programme. We had thought this would be a great way of giving something back to these communities that have welcomed us into their lives so readily.

Luke and Ana ferried us around the island to each clinic, threading courses through the coral in a battered longboat with a worryingly flimsy hull. Ana took on the role of dispensing the glasses once Devala and the village nurse had made their best assessment >>

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 15

of a person’s prescription. Ana would show them all the glasses we had that matched their prescription and, with much reference to the mirrors we are carrying, they’d choose the pair they liked. It was always going to be important that people only got to see the possible frames after their prescription had been agreed or else we suspect there was a real danger that the prettiest glasses would be perfect!

Most of the time we saw people in community halls and once at the island hospital but on a couple of occasions we also made home visits to three people who were unable to walk – this took Devala back to her days as a community physio!

It was humbling seeing the difference it made to people. A great way of spending time with, and getting to know the islanders. One villager was at pains to tell us we were doing the work of God, even if we didn’t believe in him. We have heard at various times that it is their Christian belief that explains their welcome to strangers.

As one person said, “You never know who the angel is”. Of course, we were sorry to disappoint, we’re no angels!

When we were asked for a couple of litres of petrol to run a generator, we hesitated, wary we were about to get a shopping list, as sometimes happens in more popular cruising destinations. We couldn’t have been more wrong, why hadn’t Luke just said the All Blacks were playing that night and the generator was for the only TV in the village!

We dinghied ashore in the pitch black to sit in a crowded hut and cheer, the village torn because yet another Fijian export helped the All Blacks win but resenting the rich sporting nations taking their

As the days passed not much seemed to be happening, even given they were

best players and giving little back. Fiji’s well-trained Forces are also

planning a simple event. Then on the day itself, it all seemed to ramp up and

highly valued so perhaps we shouldn’t have been so surprised to

seemingly everyone in the village was involved helping with preparations – killing

discover that several of the men in this remote island had served as

pigs, providing and chopping vegetables and putting up decorations.

UN Peacekeepers in the Middle East. The soldiers had chosen to settle back on their island of Matuku with its enviable sense of community

There was a steady stream of local people arriving from other villages, taking time to

but unenviable dependence on their irregular supply boat.

do ‘sevusevu’, the formal greeting ceremony that is de rigueur in many rural parts of Fiji that still hold with tradition. Everyone seemed to be contributing food for the day

We will never forget the sight of three young people from Lomati

and gifts for the happy couple.

relaxing in Sea Rover’s saloon perusing copies of the Oyster magazine. Dreamers all, just waiting for their lottery win! They had

The wedding was wonderful, organised chaos that we threw ourselves into. Somehow

all had their test sail, as at dawn on several Saturday mornings we

it all came together. Once again, we were the only yacht in the bay, secure in this all-

took some of the local men we knew fishing outside the reef so that

round anchorage. Mike got out his tie and jacket, which with his sulu produced many

they could get food for Sunday lunch and we could empty Sea Rover’s

compliments, including “Now you look like the pastor”.

holding tank into the ocean. We were eating ashore so often we had a vested interest in not polluting the lagoon where they usually fish.

The preparations, the rituals, the love and fun was wonderful. We had got to know so many people on the island that we felt part of the village and were included as such in

“When are you leaving, as we are getting married this Friday and would like

the day’s events.

you to be there?” We had already said our goodbyes (again!) but with an invitation like that we were staying, again! The happy couple were

Ana and Luke gifted us their salu salu (wedding lei/garlands) as the guests of honour

Luke and Ana and we now realised why Luke had been so keen to have

and we left promising that we’d take them to the opening ceremony of the Rugby

a lift when we had last sailed to Suva – to ask his and Ana’s parents

World Cup when England played Fiji and we did.

for permission (and pigs) for the wedding to take place. It was to be a low-key wedding with everyone chipping in to help. Ana wanted

As we left Lomati for the last time we felt as if we were leaving another home and were

me (Devala) to feel part of the proceedings and gave me a jaimba

both feeling very emotional. We were both left pondering ‘Just how many places can

(pronounce chamba), a traditional dress, to wear “For you if you’d like

you be lucky enough to call home?’ We will never forget our wonderful time there

to wear it”. Whilst it may not be my choice and a wee bit on the large

with her marvellous people.

side, I was going to be wearing it with pride, just another of the many touching acts we enjoyed. Of course, my offer to make a cake was welcomed, I didn’t realise it but it would be the wedding cake!

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You can read more about the adventures of Sea Rover on their blog www.searover.co.uk

ISLAND ODYSSEY 2017-19 OYSTER WORLD RALLY From Antigua to Auckland, the first part of the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally explored the southern Caribbean, the Panama Canal, the Galรกpagos and a myriad of atolls and islands in the South Pacific.

The exploration of the enchanting and remote islands of the South Pacific was far away from any continental land mass. A fascinating odyssey through pristine blue ocean, discovering the culture and traditions of island nations and experiencing the extraordinary beauty of the natural world.

After 10,000 nautical miles of oceanic exploration, the first part of the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally came to a conclusion in Auckland, New Zealand in October 2017.

WORDS BY LOUAY HABIB & OYSTER WORLD RALLY PARTICIPANTS // PHOTOS BY TIM WRIGHT, STUART JOHNSON & OYSTER WORLD RALLY PARTICIPANTS

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ANTIGUA // THE SPIRITUAL HOME OF THE OYSTER WORLD RALLY Antigua is located in the central Caribbean and the Leeward Islands are closely grouped within 150 miles to the northwest. The Windward Islands form a linked chain stretching 300 miles south. With easterly trade winds the vast majority of the Caribbean can be explored from Antigua off the breeze.

Oyster have a long association with Antigua, which has been the chosen location for Oyster Caribbean regattas since 2001. The fleet gathered in the historic surroundings of Nelson’s Dockyard, with organised parties, as well as educational seminars from expert supporters of the Oyster World Rally. It is where the Oyster World Rally community is born. The rally is not a race but it is fun to start together with the symbolic canon fire from Fort Charlotte, high above the iconic Pillars of Hercules.

Antigua is one of the best bases to explore the Caribbean islands, boasting stunning beaches, excellent marinas and yachting facilities.

Antigua has a wide variety of restaurants and a lively nightlife scene located around Falmouth Harbour. Antigua, and its sister island Barbuda, offer superb bluewater cruising along its coastline and outlying islands, with numerous well­‑charted bays and reefs to explore.

Antigua is the spiritual home of the Oyster World Rally, where the great adventure begins and comes to an end. It is an ideal location to prepare for 27 months and 30,000 nautical miles of sailing around the world.

THE ABC & SAN BLAS ISLANDS // EASY AS ABC The ABC islands are part of the Leeward Antilles that lie immediately to the north of Venezuela. From west to east the islands are Aruba, Curação and Bonaire. Aruba is a flat island, exposed to the ocean currents and easterly trade winds. Aruba has a rugged terrain, with desert-like hills filled with tall cacti and breathtaking coastline with miles of glorious white sand beaches. Bonaire and Curação are known as a diver’s paradise with many sites only accessible by boat.

The San Blas Islands of Panama are an archipelago, east of the Panama Canal, comprising approximately 400 islands and cays, of which only 49 are inhabited, scattered over 100 square miles. Devoid of mass tourism, the islands are controlled by the native Kuna people, who protect the unique beauty and culture of the San Blas Islands. Switch off your mobile phone, there is no coverage in the San Blas. Kick back and relax, the Kuna are friendly and welcoming people.

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THE PANAMA CANAL // GATEWAY TO THE PACIFIC

GALÁPAGOS // THE ENCHANTED ISLANDS

The Panama Canal is an artificial 48-mile waterway in Panama that

The Galápagos Islands lie on the Equator, 600 miles off the

connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. The Panama

coast of Ecuador. They consist of 13 major islands and hundreds

Railway steamship SS Ancon, piloted by Captain John A. Constantine,

of smaller rocky outcrops. A single volcano formed each island

made the first official transit on August 15th, 1914. The canal uses

except for Isabela, which resulted from the union of six different

a system of locks that function as water lifts, raising the yachts from

volcanoes. The surrounding Pacific Ocean is 9,000ft deep.

sea level to sail the channel through the Continental Divide. The transit

The Galápagos Islands are some of the newest and youngest

takes approximately two days, negotiating six locks. The Oyster fleet

landmasses known on earth. The majority of the islands were

stay overnight in Gatun Lake, the largest man-made lake in the world,

formed less than one million years ago. The most recently

at 180 square miles. The lake is populated by peacock bass, a prized

formed island is Fernandina, which is about 500,000 years old.

game fish, known for their fighting qualities.

Darwin labelled The Galápagos 'The Enchanted Isles' and the Panama City lies on the Pacific shoreline of the Panama Canal.

visit by HMS Beagle in 1835 helped form a major part of his

A population of over three million people, which is a unique blend

theory for ‘The Origin of the Species’. The blue-footed booby,

of African, Spanish and Native American. The cultural cocktail is

Galápagos tortoise, marine iguana and the flightless cormorant are

reflected in the urban environment, skyscrapers produce a futuristic

among some of the fascinating land dwellers. Under the ocean, the

landscape in the business district, whilst the peninsula of Casco Viejo

Galápagos is one of the most memorable locations to dive in the

has cobblestones and historic wine cellars. For the Oyster World Rally,

world. Seven major oceanic currents reach The Galápagos Islands,

Panama City is the final stop in a large urban environment before the

but mainly the Humboldt Current. They are responsible for an

fleet reaches Auckland, New Zealand, after sailing 10,000 nautical

unusual grouping of over 500 species of fish and their predators.

miles through the South Pacific.

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OYSTER WORLD RALLY 2017-19

THE MARQUESAS // THE MYSTICAL ISLES

TAHITI & BORA BORA // A DIVER'S PARADISE

The Marquesas Islands are an archipelago of 12 islands in French Polynesia, located

Tahiti is located in the Society Islands in the central Southern Pacific

over 3000 miles west of The Galápagos. Only six islands are inhabited. The voyage

Ocean, approximately 900 miles southwest of The Marquesas.

to the islands represents one of the longest and most remote, ocean going passages

Papeete, Tahiti’s capital, is home to over half of the population of the

in the Oyster World Rally. The Marquesas are wild and untamed, devoid of reefs, the

region and has the only international airport for thousands of miles.

islands have rugged, tropical valleys and steep cliffs plunging into the Pacific Ocean.

Tahiti is the economic, cultural and political centre of French Polynesia.

Bora Bora is one of the most celebrated islands in the South Pacific

The harbour at Atuona, on Hiva Oa, is one of the first ports of call on the Oyster World

and was used as a location for the James Bond film, ‘The Man with the

Rally. Hiva Oa is the final resting place for French artist Paul Gauguin, and the

Golden Gun’. The centre of the island of Bora Bora has the remnants

island is home to fine examples of Gauguin’s Tiki statues. Nuku Hiva is the largest

of an extinct volcano with twin peaks, Mount Pahia and Otemanu.

of the Marquesas Islands. Known as the Mystical Island, it is blessed with wondrous

Snorkelling and diving in the lagoons around Bora Bora is highly

waterfalls and the magnificent black-sand beach of Anaho. The main town of

regarded, famous for the clarity and diversity of coral and marine life,

Taiohae is the capital of the Marquesas and has a small yet thriving port.

including manta ray and 16 species of shark.

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TONGA // THE FRIENDLY ISLANDS The Kingdom of Tonga is an archipelago of 169 islands scattered over 270,000 square miles of the South Pacific Ocean. Only 36 islands are inhabited with the vast majority of Tongans living on the main island of Tongatapu. Tonga is the southernmost group of the islands of central Polynesia. Rugby Union is the national sport and Tonga has competed in seven editions of the Rugby World Cup. Tonga is the only surviving monarchy among the island nations of the Pacific Ocean, as well as being the only island nation never to have been formally colonised.

Tonga is one of the best places in the world to dive with humpback whales that breed in the waters off Tonga. Sea turtles, manta rays and predatory fish, such as marlin and tuna are common. Pristine coral gardens and amazing caves and arches, provide a paradise for freedivers.

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OYSTER WORLD RALLY 2017-19

FIJI // HIDDEN BEAUTY

AUCKLAND // THE CITY OF SAILS

The Lau Islands, situated 250 miles northwest of Tonga, are the most eastern group

The harbour city of Auckland, New Zealand, is a city like no other.

of islands of Fiji. The Oyster World Rally organises immigration and customs

Set amongst volcanic islands, the City of Sails is the perfect setting

clearance for the fleet here to avoid sailing past this beautiful and remote archipelago.

to bring Part 1 of the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally to a conclusion,

Lauan villages remain very traditional and the inhabitants are renowned for their

and to avoid the cyclone season in the Pacific.

wood carving and Masi paintings.

Auckland is the largest city of New Zealand, located on the North The main island of Fiji lies 150 miles northwest of the Lau Islands. The country of Fiji

Island with an urban population of around 1,495,000 and an estimated

is made up of more than 330 islands, the main island is a major yachting destination.

one in three Auckland households owning a boat. The Viaduct Basin

Port Denarau is a popular location for the Oyster fleet. The Fijian islands are

has hosted two America’s Cup challenges in 2000 and 2003, and will

renowned for beautiful landscapes and miles of secluded beaches.

be the venue for the 36th America’s Cup in March 2021.

Fiji is a paradise for hikers with mountainous regions and stunning waterfalls

To celebrate the completion of Part 1, the Pacific Rally, Auckland’s

plunging into black lava rock. Taveuni is one of Fiji’s best known islands, the Bouma

most prestigious yacht club, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron,

National Heritage Park protects pristine rainforest. The Lavena Coastal Walk climbs

hosted a special evening for the Oyster World Rally fleet. After drinks,

1,195 metres and is home to the rare emblem of Fiji, the crimson Tagimaucia flower.

canapés and a traditional Maori welcome, a celebration dinner was held in the club’s famous Squadron Ballroom. Live music and dancing completed a memorable evening. Part 1 of 2017-19 Oyster World Rally, the Pacific Rally, was brought to a spectacular conclusion.

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OWNERS' TALES FROM THE SOUTH PACIFIC OWNERS' TALES FROM THE SOUTH PACIFIC // The participants of the current World Rally have spent the past nine months visiting remote islands in the South Pacific Ocean. They have experienced the people, the culture, the scenery and the wildlife of this fascinating and beautiful oceanic world.

Here are a selection of tales that might give you an insight into what life is like on board an Oyster during the World Rally.

MISS TIGGY // OYSTER 575-01 Miss Tiggy is one of seven Oyster 575s sailing in the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally.

After 12 years living and working in the UK, Tiggy and James Nathan planned to sail back to their native home, Australia. Having experienced the Pacific Ocean, especially one enchanting moment, the couple have changed their plans.

“We have loved the South Pacific so much we have decided to keep the boat in New Zealand over the summer, and return next season to cruise, Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. To name one stand out moment is not easy, however both James and I agree – we had a hands-on, up close and personal experience, with a two year old female dolphin at Rangiroa in the Tuamotus.

“We were diving on the pass into Rangiroa with a young Polynesian diver when we met up with the dolphin, standing vertically in the water with her eyes closed waiting to be stroked. We ran our hands up and down her body, over her nose and tail – it was a very special experience to be able to interact so closely with a wild animal in her own environment, and not in a controlled setting. It was magical. She was not being fed or manipulated in any way, but was clearly seeking out attention.

“This experience has reinforced the decision we made, just before the start of the Oyster World Rally, to get our Padi Open Water diving qualification and take up scuba diving - better late than never! When you think about life changing decisions that you make, this has to be one of them and we are looking forward to continuing to dive for many years.

“The rally has definitely changed us; we have been privy to some of the most beautiful places, have met extraordinary people and made lifelong friends.

We will be sad to leave the group but thankful for what they have given us. I believe I am braver and stronger (physically and mentally). We have been challenged in many ways, have risen to those challenges, and tried to meet each one head on. James left a stressful Managing Director position of a business and has been on a huge learning curve – the challenge in skippering the boat half way around the world, has seen him swap one set of pressures for another but he has been amazing... and more relaxed!”

Read more on their website: www.misstiggy.com

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OYSTER WORLD RALLY 2017-19

OWNERS' TALES FROM THE SOUTH PACIFIC SHALEN // OYSTER 54-07 Sharon and Lenny Sackstein spend most of the time sailing Shalen by themselves and are full of praise for the Oyster World Rally support team. Lenny founded a global confectionary business in 1973 and knows how important customer service is.

SEA FLUTE // OYSTER 56-33 David and Linda Pedley acquired Sea Flute in 2014 to take part in the Oyster World

“We are having a wonderful time on the rally and are managing extremely well with the boat and the sailing.

The whole rally is a most marvellous expedition for us and we are totally committed to the idea and the plan.

Thanks to you all for organising such a wonderful way of life and for the continued amazing support that we have received along the way. I often speak about the Oyster service and management style with my business colleagues and have explained how Oyster have captured the spirit of service for the benefit of the customer. In my opinion, beside the fact that the boat is wonderful at sea and fun to sail, the Oyster success lies in their attention to the needs of the customer who is always 'king'. Bravo to the team.”

Rally, Sea Flute was originally commissioned in 2003. David decided to project manage the refit himself. Linda planned to take a break from the longer passages and fly in to meet Sea Flute at various destinations. Since leaving the UK in August 2016, Sea Flute has sailed 13,500 nautical miles to Musket Cove Marina, Fiji.

“Having managed the refit of Sea Flute, I’m very glad we carried out certain specific projects; replacing the batteries, a complete overhaul of the watermaker and a completely new Raymarine navigation and communication package. In terms of sail choice, our most successful and efficient sail plan has been goose winging, with our staysail behind the main. This has proven to be highly flexible and fast, but can still be reefed very easily and quickly.

“The experience of the Oyster World Rally has changed our perspective on life dramatically. Particularly the comforts and possessions we thought we would miss from home we haven’t at all. Of course, we have badly missed family and friends. However, we have made some incredible new friendships, which I am certain will endure well after the rally has finished. In the future, there won’t be many parts of the world we could travel to and not be near a new-found Oyster Rally friend.”

Linda Pedley - “Since we set sail from Southampton last year I have had to adapt to life onboard and the daily challenges that brings. I am very pleasantly surprised at how much I have enjoyed and changed through this experience, I am so much more open to suggestions.

Originally, I was not going to do any of the long passages, but I am so glad that I was persuaded by my family to just do it! Everything has exceeded my expectations. The places we have visited, the people we have met along the way, and the experiences we’ve had. Most of all I have enjoyed making new, lifelong friends.”

Read more on their blog: www.blog.mailasail.com/seaflute

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Read more on their blog: www.facebook.com/shalenyacht

SOPHISTIKATE // OYSTER 575-08 Richard and Angela Parkinson sold their Oyster 46, and purchased Sophistikate to sail in the 2013 Oyster World Rally, but had to postpone due to work commitments.

The whole dream to sail in the 2017 rally has required family commitment; their daughter Kate is running the family business whilst Mum, Dad and son Oscar, acting as skipper, follow the dream. A very close family unit, that all have a part to play, to make the great adventure happen.

“We are we now cruising the Yasawa Islands, western Fiji, and it’s great cruising in flat waters with the trades blowing, discovering anchorages with the beach just to ourselves. Most of our navigation is done with Google Earth as the charts are non-existent out here, and after Cyclone Winston the few marks that were there have been wiped out completely.

When you get out to the more remote villages and settlements, you see how the damage has completely destroyed lives. These people are rebuilding their village from scratch, but they are still the happiest people we have met, throughout the whole Pacific. The most welcoming, friendly people, and always so happy to help and chat.

“Most amazing experience - The Bay of Islands, Fiji. A huge natural bay full of volcanic outcrops, creating almost a canal system of little nooks and crannies to find your anchoring spot. Completely uncharted, so the more adventurous you are and the further in you go, the more you are rewarded! Two humpback whales had made it inside the reef somehow, which added to the amazing effect.

“Sophistikate is spending a few weeks cruising before being hauled out at Whangarei, New Zealand, for a few months. It provides the perfect opportunity to get some proper work done before the next leg.”

Read more on their blog: www.sailforthesunblog.wordpress.com

SUNSUSEA // OYSTER 46-22 Prior to the Oyster World Rally, Mariusz and Paulina Kierebinski realised that to fulfil their dream they needed to buy a proper boat, so they commissioned SunSuSea. Since then the couple have grown in confidence, as told in their excellent blog during the Oyster World Rally. Fiji Beqa – an encounter with deadly carnivores.

“Incredibly thrilling experience sitting face to face with a few tiger sharks during their dinner time at the Beqa resort’s Tiger Shark Cathedral. We were so close to them that we could touch them, and a few times they would touch us. The whole place was crowded with fish: sharks, tuna, wahoo and colourful reef fish. It is one of the most unique places, where neither divers or sharks are caged behind bars, just sitting in an audience like an underwater theatre. It was definitely the number one shark dive for us.”

Read more on their blog: https://my.yb.tl/SUNsuSEA

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OWNERS' TALES FROM THE SOUTH PACIFIC VELA // OYSTER 45-07 Annie and Tom Longstaff selected Vela from Oyster Brokerage, and mainly sail just two-handed. At 19 years old and 45ft long, Vela is the smallest and oldest Oyster taking part in the Oyster World Rally.

“Tom and I are now in Port Denarau, Viti Levu, Fiji, a busy commercial harbour, with day trippers, back-packers and tourists, a far cry from the real Fiji we’ve come to know and love. We are here for a few days only to charge up the batteries (both ours and Vela's), before our big voyage ahead to Auckland, just a small matter of 1170 nautical miles, eight to nine days sailing.

“There have been many ‘wow’ moments on this amazing voyage of discovery but none more so than our visit to Vulaga Island in southern Lau, Fiji, an incredible beauty, so remote, wild, and untouched.

“The narrow 50m wide passage through the reef required a bit of nerve, and certainly got my pulse racing, but once through, dodging the many coral heads littering the pass, we reached the most beautiful pale turquoise lagoon, dotted with mushroomshaped islets and small palm covered islands. At low water, ribbons of pristine white sandy beaches revealed themselves. This was certainly paradise on earth.

“Meeting the 92 year old chief in Muanaicake village for the customary Sevu Sevu ceremony and presentation of Kava root was a real privilege. Life has not changed in this village for decades,

26 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

no roads, no transport, no shops. The small tin houses are very basic, possessing no furniture or lighting. What is remarkable is that they are happy with their lives, never wanting only giving. They may be poor but their lives are rich in other ways, supported by their strong Christian values.

“At the time, I felt overwhelmed and in awe of the natural beauty of the landscape, the vibrant colours of sea and sky. The crystal clear waters are rich with sea life, and colourful pristine coral gardens.

“The visit to the village and the generosity of our host family were very humbling. At home there is too much emphasis on materialistic wealth which seems to dominate our everyday lives. I’ve come to value the more simpler things in life, the value of friendship and generosity. I certainly don’t take anything for granted, and I feel very lucky that I have been able to enjoy this amazing experience that many others can only dream about.

“I can’t see myself living in a house again, I enjoy the sailing life too much, the freedom, the variety, the travelling and most of all the people. A truly rewarding experience.”

Read more on their blog: https://my.yb.tl/SailingYachtVela

ENSO // OYSTER 825-06 The largest yacht in the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally has a permanent crew of four led by boat captain, Tim Macintosh. The professional crew always have Enso ready for sea, with regular rig and system checks and sails ready to hoist.

However, when the crew are able, they love to enjoy adrenaline sports.

“So far, we have been lucky enough to, zip-line, quad bike, jet ski, skydive, surf, body board, hike … the list goes on, there’s always something fun to do on Enso as well, with our massive selection of toys, there aren’t many days that go by where we don’t get up to something fun!

“Skydiving in Fiji was quite frankly amazing. The flight up to 14,000ft is stunning with plenty of time to take in the beautiful scenery and get a little nervous at the same time! The jump itself is unlike anything I have ever done, the feeling of just stepping off is very strange and the mind struggles to keep up for the first couple of seconds. After that it’s about a minute of free fall with the reefs stretching as far as the eye can see. The final part under the parachute is slightly more relaxed and gives an even better opportunity to take in the views, including the Oyster fleet in Port Denerau Marina.

“Diving with a humpback whale is one of the most special and spell binding experiences of my life, just getting in the water with these

giants is such a privilege. With some expert guidance, we positioned ourselves in a way that mother and calf seemed very comfortable with our presence. The calf was playful, swimming to within a few metres to investigate us more closely, before returning to the safety of mum.

You are constantly aware of the fact that you are very small, and they are very big and very quick. The mother always seems to be watching you with her big beautiful eyes. The overwhelming feeling is of gratitude, that these creatures will allow you to see into their world.

“I think a special mention should go to the Oyster World Rally team on the ground, without these guys everything would have been much harder and slower.

These guys are absolute stars, always ready to help, answer questions, queries and generally keep the show going. A big thank you from Enso to Oyster for building such a good boat for us, we’ve had our ups and downs as you always do, but at no point has she ever failed us, or felt anything other than bulletproof.”

For more stories and pictures from the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally, please visit: oysterworldrally.com

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OYSTER WORLD RALLY 2017-19

THE GREAT ESCAPE Louay Habib speaks to Oyster Yachts CEO David Tydeman, about how the Oyster World Rally has evolved. The first Oyster World Rally was held in 2013-14, starting and finishing in Antigua, West Indies. The 2017-19 edition is well under way and is an evolution of the inaugural rally. The third edition is confirmed to start in January 2021, once again starting and finishing in Antigua.

The Oyster World Rally started as an idea to celebrate 40 years of Oyster Yachts and has now become an essential part of the company’s DNA. The circumnavigation is a unique way to satisfy the desire to take that big adventure, safely and with total freedom. When the 2017-19 edition finishes, 100 circumnavigations will have been completed by Oysters, that is one in five of all the ocean-going Oysters ever built.

Oyster Yachts is the only yacht manufacturer offering an organised circumnavigation exclusively for its owners and has many years of research, development, practical knowledge and expertise. Oyster Yachts has the resources, passion and motivation to deliver an outstanding experience.

THE OYSTER WORLD RALLY ALUMNI The inaugural Oyster World Rally 2013-14 had somewhat of a regatta connection. Many of the 'Class of 2013' had owned Oysters for many years, and as regular competitors at Oyster Regattas, they brought some of that competitive spirit with them. The owners that participated in that first edition were pioneers and after listening to them, we decided that the rally length of 15 months was too short, especially the time allotted to explore the Pacific.

The 'Class of 2017' are very different, 18 of the Oysters were entered through Oyster Brokerage transactions and over half of the owners are new to Oyster. They have come into the Oyster family to do the rally and many of them are already talking about 'what’s next', such as experiencing the Oyster Regattas.

The 'Class of 2017' have spent almost double the time exploring the Pacific, taking more time to visit probably the best part of the route, before sailing to New Zealand, to avoid the cyclone season. This break

A TOTALLY HANDS-ON ADVENTURE

from November to March allows participants to return home at an

In 2010, Oyster was about to give out the 43rd circumnavigation award and came

ideal time for business or family reasons and to explore Australia and

up with the concept of a small group of Oysters going around the world together.

New Zealand, during their summer months.

Oyster was astounded with the response. 25 owners entered their yachts, the energy and enthusiasm generated was unprecedented and the first Oyster World Rally was in creation. Year‑on‑year, the event has been analysed and tweaked, and the Oyster World Rally has become written in stone, a special part of Oyster.

Most of the Oyster yachts that have taken part are 65ft or less, sailed by family and friends with one or two paid hands. The older generation tend to navigate or take the helm and the younger generation tend to operate the foredeck and control lines.

One owner of a large example of the Oyster fleet, decided that his boat was too big, and required too many crew, so he has decided to sell the yacht, buy a smaller Oyster, just for the next rally. The Oyster World Rally is exclusive to Oyster owners, they are all people with shared values, the camaraderie that this brings is so valuable.

The Oyster family visit each other’s boats and share ideas that are easy to translate from one boat to another.

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OYSTER’S SAFETY NET After several years of the rally, Oyster has established that some participants can under prepare, because they do not fully realise what they are taking on. That is where taking part in the Oyster World Rally makes it safer. Whilst every participant is in charge of their own vessel, Oyster Yachts' service engineers and concierge services provide a safety net. This safety net enhances the communication between the Oyster fleet.

Sharing their own spares is a common occurrence and once the spare is allocated, Oyster HQ can then arrange for another unit to be shipped out.

Oyster Yachts have learnt lessons from past experiences and pass that knowledge on through special seminars and in the Oyster World Rally Guide. This guide contains hundreds of pages and is updated before every rally. It contains detailed, accurate information about marinas and anchorages, location by location. It also contains well-informed advice about maintenance, medical training, right through to how to run a galley in the Tropics.

Oyster Yachts provide professional shore support at key stopover points and for the transit of the Panama Canal. For the 2017-19 rally, the support staff are rotated, as tasking one team to be in place for the whole rally can cause burn out. By sharing the work load, a pool of knowledge and experience is created, which the larger group can draw upon for future rallies.

At the Oyster Yachts shipyards in Southampton and Norfolk, the 350 people on the shop floor do not go on the adventure, but through internal newsletters and other updates, they feel in touch with the Oyster World Rally. Universally, they take tremendous pride in their work and great responsibility. Oyster Yachts have to be safe for people who are sailing across oceans with their families.

ALREADY 34 AND RISING FOR THE 'CLASS OF 2021' The 2021-23 rally will be split into two parts, Antigua to New Zealand, and New Zealand to Antigua. 34 owners have expressed their intention to take part in the 2021-23 Oyster World Rally. Ten of them do not even own a yacht yet, and there are limited numbers of new build Oysters available in the time frame. So, existing Oyster Yachts will be taking part in the next rally. The 'Class of 2013' was 25 boats and 29 for the 'Class of 2017'. Oyster Yachts is comfortable with a maximum of 35 for the 2021-23 Oyster World Rally. However, increasing the number above this maximum causes concern that some remote locations do not have the infrastructure to cope with the numbers.

SAILING AROUND THE WORLD IS THE DREAM, OYSTER MAKE IT HAPPEN.

mainsail to be rolled up, to sail downwind with two foresails. We

The Oyster World Rally has influenced the design of the latest Oyster yachts especially

have established that during the rally, Oysters are sailing downwind in

the Oyster 565 and 595. There are good sail lockers, more lazarette space, a transom

this mode for a considerable length of time. The overall concept of the

dinghy storage option and a different rig plan, because this adventure has shown the

Oyster 565 is for family sailing without the need for professional crew.

need. The Oyster 565 has three cabins but it also has a fourth space, which can be used

The 595 has been designed carefully to offer the same essentials in

as a utility area, such as a store or workshop, or as an extra bunk. The rig plan allows the

a larger yacht, for those with slightly larger budgets.

With special thanks to:

The third edition of the Oyster World Rally will start in January 2021, for further details visit: oysterworldrally.com or contact worldrally2021@oysteryachts.com to register your interest.

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COULD WE REALLY SAIL AROUND THE WORLD?

HARVEY & SUE DEATH OYSTER 575 // SAFIYA We had all the ingredients – a beautiful new Oyster 575, good health and time on our hands...

The seed of an idea was sown when we were sitting on the Oyster stand at boot DĂźsseldorf in January 2015. We had gone there to gather ideas for the specification of our new Oyster 575 when the possibility of joining the 2017-19 Oyster World Rally was first suggested. Sailing around the world was not something we had ever contemplated, with work and family commitments, our cruising had so far been limited to snatched weeks in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

However, a few months earlier, we had quickly and unexpectedly sold our business, at the same time our youngest daughter had started university. All of a sudden we were free agents and Harvey had always said that he would have a gap year before the children! We were relatively young and fit, the children were more or less independent and our parents were in good health it seemed like perfect timing.

WORDS & PHOTOS BY SUE DEATH

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// OWNER STORY

We previously owned an Oyster 56 that we had for ten years.

We participated in a number of Oyster Regattas in the Mediterranean and Caribbean and had always enjoyed the social side of the events and being part of the ‘Oyster family’. Having a new boat on order was ideal as we could spec it with the Oyster World Rally in mind, incorporating the essential watermaker with automatic back flush, lithium batteries, extra charging capacity and higher output generator. We also had two satellite communications systems fitted that provided world coverage. Our project manager also happened to be Debbie Johnson who, with her partner Eddie, had organised the first Oyster World Rally (OWR) so we were able to draw on her considerable experience and knowledge. The seed of an idea grew and after two years of planning and preparation, attending Oyster seminars and numerous other courses, we found ourselves in Antigua for the official start of the OWR 2017-19. wind that blow down from the Sierra Nevada across the bay of Santa

“WE FEEL SO LUCKY AND PRIVILEGED TO HAVE VISITED SOME OF THE MOST REMOTE AND BEAUTIFUL ISLANDS IN THE WORLD AND TO HAVE MADE LIFE LONG FRIENDS IN DOING SO.”

Marta. Also complicating matters was the very large yellowfin tuna that we had landed and were currently towing on the sugar scoop.

Arriving late evening in the dark with the confusing myriad of lights on the shore, we were guided into the marina and helped to moor up

by Oyster owners who had got out of bed to help us. This kindness and generosity has characterised the whole rally.

On January 15th 2017, Safiya with Harvey, Declan (our crew) and

Santa Marta is a fabulous little town and Columbia itself is a country

me onboard, set off on the adventure of a lifetime together with 28

with a burgeoning tourist industry and friendly, welcoming people.

other Oysters. We are a mixed bunch of nationalities, mainly British

We endured a bumpy five hour road journey to spend a couple of

and American but with the rest of the world represented by Brazil,

days in the colonial walled city of Cartagena, a beautiful UNESCO

Australia, Poland, Lebanon, Israel, Sweden, Germany, Holland and

World Heritage site. This was our first time off the boat and we really

the Philippines. The yachts range in size from 45-82ft, but despite

enjoyed our down time and the simple pleasure of soaking in a bath

the diversity of nationalities and size we are united by our passion for

with endless supplies of hot water.

sailing and sense of adventure. In nine months we have shared some amazing experiences and become a tight little community, helping

Our next stop was the San Blas Islands just off the coast of Panama,

each other out with technical issues, sharing spare parts, offering

the perils of navigating around these islands had been well drilled

medical assistance and even swapping fish recipes!

into us. The charts were unreliable and we relied on a well thumbed pilot guide to keep us safe. We arrived in the Cocos Banderos Cays,

Our route took us south through the Leeward Islands to Guadeloupe,

the most easterly of the San Blas Islands and were awestruck by their

we turned to starboard and experienced the downwind sailing that

beauty. These little gems are picture postcard beautiful. Tiny little

would characterise the next few months. We headed for the Dutch

white sand islands with a few palm trees dotted around, surrounded

Antilles, first port of call Bonaire. This island is a diver’s Mecca,

by the clearest bluest sea we had ever seen. They are populated by the

with a strict no anchoring policy. The coral reef that surrounds the

Kuna Indians who still live on the larger islands in much the same

island is pristine and teeming with wildlife. Diving in Bonaire is

way as they did hundreds of years ago.

plentiful and cheap.

We reluctantly dragged ourselves away from the San Blas Islands and From Bonaire we made the short hop to Curaçao and the quaint city

headed for Shelter Bay, the holding marina for the Panama Canal.

of Willemstad with its floating fruit and veg market and curious mix of Dutch colonial buildings. Leaving the Caribbean islands behind

The transit through the canal has got to be a highlight of the trip so

we headed for South America. Giving Venezuela a wide berth – we

far. Even in nests of three boats (boats of similar size rafted together),

headed instead for the Colombian town of Santa Marta. We slightly

we were dwarfed by the sheer scale of the canal. It was an emotional

misjudged the timing having survived the notorious 45+ knots of

moment when we emerged from the final lock and sailed under the >>

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 31

Bridge of Americas, the gateway to the Pacific Ocean. Before we embarked on this trip

under the water as they swam circles around us. Back on Safiya,

the longest passage I had sailed was 200 nautical miles, Harvey was no stranger to

Declan had been busy preparing her for our longest passage of the

passage sailing but I had very little experience of night sailing. The next stage of our

rally, 3300 nautical miles to the Marquesas.

journey, Panama to The Galápagos Islands (1000 nautical miles) was going to be a test for me as, with only three of us onboard, I had to run my own watch.

This was going to be the biggest test of this leg of the rally and the longest passage of the whole trip. Passage sailing can be quite

Our first taste of the South Pacific was very benign, with very little wind we

isolating because even though a whole bunch of you set off together

motor sailed most of the way. The sea was like glass, excellent for wildlife spotting.

it isn’t long until there is not another boat within VHF distance.

At one point the sea was brown with a huge shoal of rays and then turtles. Close to

Luckily we have a SSB Radio Net call everyday when we are on

The Galápagos we spotted possibly the largest pod of porpoises we had ever seen,

passage. At an agreed time every morning the net controller takes

it stretched as far as the eye could see. We sailed over to them and they were in a

a roll call and each boat reports their position, weather, sea state, etc.

playful mood as they performed for us, diving and pirouetting as we snapped away.

Not only is this information useful for passage planning it is also an

As we approached The Galápagos we crossed the equator and like all good ‘Polliwogs’

important safety net. The evening roll call is less formal and provides

we paid homage to Neptune!

a forum for discussion on anything from technical issues to wildlife spotting, recipes and even very bad jokes!

The Galápagos Islands were on our bucket list of places to visit and they did not disappoint. Private boats are very limited in where they can go, with just three

We soon settled into a routine and the 17 day passage passed very

designated anchorages on the outside of the islands. In order to visit the inner

quickly and without incident. Our first sight of land came at dawn as

islands and see the wildlife you have to take a licensed boat trip. We had pre-

we approached Fatu Hiva in the Marquesas and our first experience

booked an eight day cruise – a busman’s holiday maybe but at least someone else

of French Polynesia. The early morning cloud lifted to reveal a

was doing the driving, cooking, cleaning etc, leaving us free to enjoy the wildlife

Jurassic landscape of rocky spires and pillars covered in lush green

and stunning volcanic scenery.

vegetation. This tiny remote island provided a sheltered anchorage and a welcome chance to recharge our batteries.

On the islands all the animals live so harmoniously together and one evening, as we were ferried back to our boat by dinghy, we got very close to some rocks where there

From Nuku Hiva we had a relatively short sail to the Tuamotu

were families of sea lions, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas,

Islands which topographically are the exact opposite of the

penguins and pelicans all lined up next to each other, not bothered by each other or us!

Marquesas. Completely flat sandy atolls surrounded by reef. Inside

Whilst snorkelling we saw giant Galápagos turtles, black tip and white tip sharks and

without even getting wet! The passage through the reef can be a bit

the reef the water is turquoise blue and so clear that you can snorkel eagle rays as well as many different types of reef fish. However, the highlight for me

hairy and has to be timed to coincide with slack water, (a challenge

was snorkelling with some really playful young sea lion pups, they were like torpedoes

when there are no published tide timetables!), so it’s not for the faint-hearted.

Rangiroa, the largest of the Tuamotus, was our favourite atoll and my lasting memory of the rally so far came when we were diving in the pass. A lone female dolphin came over to our group. Our dive leader told us afterwards that she had been ostracised from her pod and as a result had befriended divers. She allowed us to stroke and cuddle her, it still gives me goosebumps when I think about it now.

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Our next French Polynesian island was Tahiti, a French Overseas

these two enormous humpback whales broke the surface just feet from us, splashing

Territory. Whilst Tahiti is a busy, bustling place its little sister

their giant pectoral fins as they breached and then dived again. It was a truly close and

Mo’orea, situated only ten nautical miles away, is the exact opposite.

breathtaking encounter.

Laid back with a bohemian vibe, we enjoyed a family holiday with our children and then moved on to chic Bora Bora with its pristine

We’ve been in Fiji for nearly six weeks now and it still feels as if we have only just

resorts and extortionately priced cocktails.

scratched the surface. We arrived into the Lau group of islands that were very badly damaged by Cyclone Winston in February 2016. There is still a lot of reconstruction

Our youngest daughter joined us for the next passage, Tahiti to

going on.

Tonga. At 1300 nautical miles this was our second longest passage and by far the worst conditions. We endured five metre swells and

I didn’t realise how large and diverse Fiji is, with a very multicultural society. It is

35 knots of wind, waves were breaking over the side of the boat.

made up of 333 islands of which only one third are inhabited. With such a wide

Some nights sleeping was nigh on impossible with the boat rolling

choice of cruising, the fleet split and spread out.

and bucking and sea sickness was a constant problem.

As I write this we are in Musket Cove marina in Fiji where we will soon be The Kingdom of Tonga is the oldest and last remaining Polynesian

departing for New Zealand. We have another 1200 nautical miles to cover before

monarchy. It has never been under foreign rule and as such it does

we arrive in Auckland around the middle of October. This is the final destination of

not have the luxury of foreign investment. It was noticeably poorer

the first leg of the rally. We have nearly six months in New Zealand to explore the

and more primitive than the Society Islands but the people were

country before we regroup to commence the next leg in April 2018.

welcoming and happy. Family and religion are very important to the Tongans and their culture and traditions are deep-rooted.

We feel so lucky and privileged to have visited some of the most remote and

There is great cruising in the myriad of islands dotted around the

beautiful islands in the world and to have made life long friends in doing so.

Vava’u group and our Oyster welcome party was a beach BBQ held

In April a couple of new Oysters are joining the fleet, a few are staying in New

on one of these tiny deserted islands.

Zealand or are being shipped back to the Mediterranean. We will be very sad to say goodbye to our friends who are leaving the rally, but we have the most incredible

When snorkelling in Tonga, during a whale spotting trip, we observed

shared experiences to look back on.

two humpback whales underneath us. At first we could only see a very blurred outline. We snorkelled above them for about five minutes until they slowly started moving upwards towards us, and

To read the Safiya blog, please visit: www.blog.mailasail.com/safiya

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 33

// OWNER STORY

THE STORY OF ELISE

SIDNEY HARRISON II OYSTER 66 // ELISE The First Leg Elise’s story began 18 years ago when I had a dream to circumnavigate the globe. As a silent reminder of this extraordinary 'bucket list' item, I carried around a picture of an Oyster in my wallet. My daughter, Whitney Elise, was 12 at the time, and she asked me, “Daddy, when you get your sailboat, will you please name it after me?” Of course, I said yes. The picture disintegrated over time, but almost two decades later, Captain Sidney III and I set out to find our Oyster 66-05. The dream came alive, and what a dream it has been for SY Elise on the Oyster World Rally.

WORDS BY SIDNEY HARRISON & WHITNEY ELISE HARRISON // PHOTOS BY SIDNEY, WHITNEY ELISE & FREYA SANDERS

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It was opening day, January 15th, 2017, at the historic Nelson’s Dockyard Marina in Antigua.

When we got ourselves back together, we motored to Puerto Baquerizo

The Oyster fleet was poised and ready to set sail as a palpable excitement permeated the sea salt

Moreno, San Cristobal, to check into The Galápagos. Checking in required

air. Although most of us were strangers at the start, we shared an unspoken bond knowing that

a diver to inspect the bottom of the boat and seven officials from all agencies

we were all courageous (and maybe crazy) enough to embark on this adventure of a lifetime.

to board Elise, fill in paperwork and ensure we were aware of all the rules

For me, this adventure was the primary reason to participate in the rally, but a very close

for visiting The Galápagos Islands. During the week at the port, Captain

second, was the opportunity to make new, yet lifelong, friendships and to build a family-type

Sidney III and I hiked to a lake at the top of a volcano and toured a land

community. We had (and still have) a long way to go and would need the community support

tortoise reserve where giant tortoises were nearly my size. We then went to

to make the trip safe and fun.

POW! The gun sounded, and 29 Oysters raced south from Antigua almost side by side.

This exhilarating memory still puts a big old grin on my face.

On our way to the Panama Canal, we stopped by the Renaissance Marina in Aruba – known as the 'One Happy Island' and one of our most favorite places. We then headed for Panama's San Blas Islands – a picturesque and secluded cruising area with crystal clear water.

When we all arrived at Shelter Bay Marina in Panama, Oyster threw our first of many parties at the World Heritage Site, Fort San Lorenzo, where we got to know more and more of our fellow travelers, most of which were all dressed up in carnival garb. We knew then that the trek was going to be a lot of fun!

Next was the much-anticipated Panama Canal transit. As an avid reader, I have studied the

“WE’VE SAILED HALFWAY AROUND THE WORLD, AND IT’S BEEN A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE FULL OF UNIQUE SIGHTS AND EXCITING ADVENTURES. BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, I CAN HONESTLY SAY THAT WHAT WAS ONCE A GROUP OF STRANGERS ARE NOW SOME OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS, AND I CHERISH AND RESPECT OUR OYSTER FAMILY. ”

history of the canal and visited several museums, so throughout the transit I marveled at one of the world’s most incredible man-made structures – a vivid experience I won’t soon forget.

Santa Cruz, a much larger city with provisions, many bars and restaurants.

The Oyster fleet was organized into three-boat rafts for the two day passage. As each wave

In addition to colossal tortoises, we saw blue-footed boobies, seals, marine

rolled, the marina emptied of the familiar Oyster banners. Our raft, consisting of Meteorite,

iguanas, sea turtles, lava tubes and the strangest cacti with what looked like

Enso and Elise, flowed into the first open lock as a large ship 30 metres above us waited to be

pine bark trunks.

lowered, an amazing sight demonstrating the massive size and complexity of the canal system.

We passed through five locks before coasting into the Pacific Ocean.

On April 8th, I threw a 36th birthday cocktail party for Captain Sidney III at The Works where most of the rally members in the harbour attended. It was

Other than the canal transit, the things I remember the most about Panama were the ghostly

a blast and our community of travelers got to know each other on deeper,

sounds of howling monkeys at Shelter Bay Marina and a three day luxurious stay at the Trump

more personal levels. >>

Tower in Panama City. Next we toured the Las Perlas Islands for a few days and relaxed at a beach and pool club on Isla Viveros.

After leaving Las Perlas, we made a beeline to The Galápagos Islands on an incredibly placid sea for four days. Elise was a graceful lady on the lake. When we arrived at the equator with fellow Oysters, Shalen, El Mundo, and Shanties, we threw our own line-crossing ceremony and impromptu party including costumes, champagne, music and dives in the ocean.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 35

After a couple weeks, we left The Galápagos and began the 3200 nautical mile sail to Nuku Hiva

We snorkelled in the aquarium with masses of technicolour fish and black tip

in the Marquesas Islands. 17 days later, we arrived at midnight in pitch black. We didn’t see

sharks, watched dolphins jump and dance in the swells of the Tiputa Pass,

any lights until we were abreast of the bay. Such darkness was slightly unnerving, but the next

rode bikes along the six mile road, visited the black pearl farm, cruised across

morning gifted gorgeous views of towering green mountains standing strong out of the sea and

the lagoon to the Isle of Reefs where large black volcanic rocks shoot out of

lush waterfalls carving every crevice they could find. Oyster threw its second party with authentic

the turquoise water and enjoyed dinner at Josephine’s and Kia Ora with

Marquesan fare, local dancers sporting animal bones and traditional dress and a DJ - what an

rally friends. Simply spectacular!

unforgettable cultural experience! I was also lucky to spend my 40th wedding anniversary with my wonderful wife, Glenn, at the lodge overlooking the bay – a very special milestone for us.

An overnight sail brought us back to civilization to Marina Taina in Tahiti.

A month in Tahiti allowed me to return home for a couple of weeks and the

Now, no long voyage is complete without its own share of boat problems. Our generator heat

crew to attend to a list of repairs. Next stop – the famed Society Islands!

exchanger suffered from many tube leaks and left us stranded in the bay with no way to charge the batteries or to make water. There was water everywhere but nothing to drink – a curious

The magical island of Mo'orea was our first destination in the Society

irony indeed! Incredibly I found a replacement heat exchanger in Portsmouth, VA, not far from

Islands. With the entire Harrison family on board, we sailed back and forth

my home. My daughter, Whitney Elise, picked up the new heat exchanger and planned to fly to

between two beautiful anchorages, Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay, the latter

Tahiti and then on to Nuku Hiva. It was a great plan until Air Tahiti went on strike. One of the

of which was featured on the silver screen in the movie, 'The Bounty'. Here

only flights out of Tahiti was to Rangiroa in the Tuamotus Islands, so Whitney Elise flew there

Oyster threw our third party where mystical mountains were the backdrop

with the part and waited a few days for us to arrive.

for Polynesian canoe races, authentic Polynesian dancers, a BBQ lunch and many other activities. On July 4th, Elise rafted up with On Liberty

After borrowing water from fellow Oysters, El Mundo and Tianelle, we set sail for the truly idyllic

for a fun-filled afternoon party involving nearly all of the Oyster yachts

atoll. As soon as we arrived, Captain Sidney III adeptly fixed our generator, and we spent the

anchored in the Opunohu Bay. The party symbolised the first legendary

next ten days on one of the most beautiful islands in the world with the bluest and clearest water.

Brexit event. We snorkeled with stingrays and black tipped sharks, visited

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the underwater Tiki Garden, four wheeled through pineapple groves and

so everyone was incredibly excited to swim with these majestic creatures

raced to the top of Magic Mountain for breathtaking views of the Oysters

(and in some cases, their calves) and will never forget the sounds of their

down below. What a lovely island!

ceremonious underwater singing. Here we had yet another Oyster beach party at Kenutu Island including a Tongan beach feast. We visited the city

Huahine was our next stop and turned out to be an island of celebrations.

of Neiafu which boasted many restaurants, provisions and encounters with

First we celebrated the 30th wedding anniversary of our dear friends from

the friendly Tongan people. The Oyster community of travelers threw a

Shanties, Jacek and Dobra, at Chez Tara – it was one hell of a party! Not to

legendary 70s party at the Basque Tavern replete with costumes, tapas,

be outdone, a few days later we also celebrated the birthdays of three of our

libations and dancing to groovy 60s and 70s music.

rally men, Joe, Tom, and Rob, at a beach cookout and bonfire. Needless to say, we’ve gotten darn good at throwing beach parties – it was a blast!

Tonga was fantastic, but we had one more stunning island destination

We also rented a car and drove around the entire island, visiting many

left – Fiji. When we arrived in Vanua Balavu in the Lau Group of Fijian

maraes (religious temples and burial sites for kings), ancient fishing traps,

Islands, we had the opportunity to experience an authentic Kava welcoming

sacred moray eels and a local Heiva (a Polynesian song and dance contest,

ceremony with a local blessing. We then anchored nearby in the unique Bay

the winners of which compete in Tahiti).

of Islands, an idyllic anchorage among many small volcanic isles. A group of Oyster travelers went on a “tender safari” and explored, snorkeled and dove

A short sail away were the mysterious islands of Raiatea and Taha'a, both

in underwater caves. Afterwards, we discovered a perfect beach for another

encompassed by the same reef and lagoon. We visited the Taputapuatea

BBQ. Again, we are now experts at beach parties!

Marae, an ancient temple and the religious centre of Eastern Polynesia - some even say the birthplace of the Polynesian religion. We met Tama

Later, we sailed directly for Denarau Marina, as Elise had been operating

Castagnoli, a local tour guide, who entertained and educated us for two days

with a dead battery bank for almost a month since Tonga, and our

on the ways of the islands, especially on experiencing the 'mana' (a deep

refrigeration system desperately needed replacements and repairs. Port

and spiritual connection to nature). We took an outrigger canoe cruise on

Denarau offered all the amenities of home: a marina, yacht craftsmen,

the Faaroa River, snorkeled in coral gardens with Tama and his beautiful

shopping, restaurants, bars, resorts, inter-island logistics and tours.

family, toured a vanilla farm and a black pearl farm and enjoyed a delicious

My kind of place!

dinner with friends at the Taha'a Resort and Spa. Elise then attended the 34th Fiji Regatta hosted by the Musket Cove Yacht Finally, we were off to the widely known island Bora Bora – The Pearl of

Club for a week of yacht and catamaran races, BBQs and themed parties.

the Pacific. We toured the luxurious (and crazy expensive) island resorts,

Such a regatta is an absolute must for Oyster Rally participants. At Musket

anchored in crystal blue waters at Motu To’opua, hiked to WWII cannons,

Cove, we also celebrated Fiji Independence Day, and the Hair of the Dog

snorkeled with stingrays, black tip and lemon sharks and ate and drank

Party the following day prepared us for the 1,200 nautical mile sail to

lavishly at the famous Bloody Mary's, Mai‑Kai, and Bora Bora Yacht Club.

Auckland, New Zealand.

Bora Bora will always hold a special place in our hearts, as Whitney Elise and her longtime boyfriend, Christian, got engaged. After hiking with a

So here we are – the first leg of the Oyster World Rally 2017-19 has

local tour guide (who was also named Tama) to the marae at the Valley of

come to an end. We’ve sailed halfway around the world, and it’s been a life-

the Kings, to the oldest Banyan tree in the world and to insanely gorgeous

changing experience full of unique sights and exciting adventures. But most

panoramic views of the blue lagoon, it was time for Whitney Elise, Christian

importantly, I can honestly say that what was once a group of strangers are

and Glenn to return home to Virginia. It was a sad day when they boarded

now some of my closest friends, and I cherish and respect our Oyster family.

the ferry for the airport, but I’m so grateful for the incredible memories we

It doesn't get any better than that, and it’s not over yet! Dream on.

shared on one of the world’s most spectacular islands.

We left the Society Islands and embarked on a seven day voyage to Vava'u

To follow Elise's story, search for S/Y Elise – Oyster World Rally 2017 –

in the Kingdom of Tonga. It was the height of humpback whale season,

2019 on Facebook.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 37

OYSTER REGATTA BVI 2017 RACE DAY ONE // RACE ONE // SPONSORED BY RAYMARINE The 39th Oyster Regatta in the British Virgin Islands got off to a fine start on Tuesday 11th April 2017. Winds built to 15-20 knots, shifty under the clouds, however the fleet enjoyed a great race in two classes.

John McTigue’s new Oyster 625 Irish Blessing was just behind Oyster 82, Starry Night of the Caribbean in Class 1, with Sotto Vento, Oyster 655, 3rd. Dick Hammill, determined to defend his class win in his first ever Oyster Regatta in Antigua last year on his Oyster 575 Spirit, found the right wind shifts as the yachts passed through the Salt Island Passage and stamped his mark with a good win in Class 2. Newcomers Solway Mist – Oyster 46-08, and Seashells of St James – Oyster 46-06 – enjoyed close racing to take 2nd and 3rd respectively.

With a fancy dress party at the Norman Island Pirates restaurant, the fleet rounded the day off swapping tall tales and challenges for day two.

WORDS BY OYSTER // PHOTOS BY SASHA

38 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

RACE DAY TWO // RACE TWO // SPONSORED BY LEWMAR With an unusual forecast of southerly winds and less than 10 knots, dying in the

on day one and a wise choice to elect to use fore and aft sails on day

afternoon, day two of the Oyster Regatta set challenges for the Race Officer, Oyster

two, we have enjoyed a great couple of days.

CEO David Tydeman. With the enthusiastic support of the fleet – despite the lively pirates party of the night before – racing started at 0950 with staggered starts over

“While racing fills the days, the evenings are consumed with wall to

40 minutes. Setting a short upwind leg to the south west, the fleet left Norman Island and

wall camaraderie – meeting other owners and crews from around

Peter Island sailing anticlockwise around them to then have a short spinnaker run to Dead

the world, sharing sailing stories, toasting victories and enjoying

Chest Island. Dead Chest is sometimes used by the local police as a firing range and

foods distinctly Caribbean. Where would one rather be?”

to their surprise the peaceful sailing was briefly interrupted by gunfire!

By luck, the flat calm forecast for Thursday coincided with a lay day Both classes sailed the same course for this second race sponsored by Lewmar and

and most yachts headed for Anagada Island for a day of beach fun.

finishing times were encouragingly close with only 11 minutes separating the largest and smallest yachts in the fleet on corrected time.

Racing continued on Friday and Saturday, with four yachts from the UK and four from the USA, a team challenge developed – with the

Dick Hammill seemed to be set to repeat his class win from the Oyster Regatta Antigua

USA team strongly in the lead after the first two days – all to play for in

in 2016 with two wins in the first two days – he commented, “We’re relative newcomers

the next two races. In Class 1, Oyster 82 Starry Night was level pegging

to Oyster Regattas since we took delivery of our Oyster 575 in May of 2015. Our first

with John McTigue’s new Oyster 625. This is Starry Night’s “Silver

experience was last year in Antigua and now here we sit in the BVI amidst another

Jubilee” 25th Oyster Regatta and she was determined to take home the

wonderful gathering of owners and crews, spirited racing and ideal weather.

silverware. >>

“We now have two wins under our belt and the anticipation for the rest of the week is running high. Thanks to our skipper’s tactics with the cruising chute on the final leg

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 39

RACE DAYS THREE & FOUR // RACE THREE // SPONSORED BY DOLPHIN SAILS RACE FOUR // SPONSORED BY PELAGOS The 39th Oyster Regatta relaxed into a series of beach parties and games ashore.

The four USA yachts – Solway Mist, Seashells, Irish Blessing and

Some went out on Lasers and Hobie Cats, drifting rather than sailing in the almost

Spirit, took the team awards, beating the UK team of Jigsaw, Starry

complete calm that covered the British Virgin Islands from Thursday to Saturday.

Night, Sotto Vento and Dama de Noche.

Judged by all the participants to be one of the most successful Caribbean regattas for a while, the message we’ve heard many times before came ringing out loud and clear – Oyster owners just enjoy their yachts and each other’s company! Racing, partying

Overall, with only two races to count, the places were decided on count back. To great applause as a very popular winner of Class 1,

or just chilling out, these events provide a wonderful mix of exclusive opportunity to

John McTigue on his new Oyster 625 Irish Blessing just pipped

swap tales, plan future adventures and share experiences.

Starry Night Oyster 82 in second place. Third place went to Alan and Susan Parker on their Oyster 82 Dama de Noche.

Swamped with prizes from Dolphin Sails and Pelagos – who had sponsored the aborted race three and race four – the race management team enjoyed deciding why they should

In Class 2, Dick Hammill on Oyster 575 Spirit matched his class win

be awarded to participants for non-racing reasons! A hugely popular first award was the

success of the Antigua 2016 event, with Solway Mist a very popular

‘Lay Day Prize’ awarded to John McTigue for hosting a great outing to Anagada Island.

second, just ahead of regatta stalwarts Ian Galbraith and his regular chums on Jigsaw.

Richard Smith on his Oyster 655 Sotto Vento was honoured as the owner who had completed the most miles in Oyster events – 30,000 miles of the 2013-14 World Rally

The prize giving ended with lively dancing into the early hours and

and 21 Oyster Regattas!

a resounding commitment to ‘see you all in Bermuda May 2018’.

Mark Salisbury on his Oyster 46 Seashells of St James was awarded the ‘Spirit of the Regatta’ prize for his sterling efforts and no complaints whilst sailing short-handed without enough crew.

Cristian Pizarro shipped his Oyster 46 Solway Mist from Palma specially for the event and the 12 crew were a full complement of four specialist paediatric surgeons and their families – definitely earning the ‘Commitment Award’.

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For full results please go to: oysteryachts.com/bvi-regatta2017

OYSTER REGATTA PALMA 2017 OYSTER’S 40TH REGATTA Once again the Oyster fleet descended upon Palma de Mallorca for the 40th Oyster Regatta. A fleet of 26 racing and two social entries ranging from 49-100ft gathered on the Oyster dock for five days of racing and socialising in the fantastic location of Palma Bay.

WORDS BY OYSTER // PHOTOS BY NICO MARTÍNEZ, MARTÍNEZ STUDIO

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 41

RACE DAY ONE // RACE ONE // SPONSORED BY LEWMAR A glorious start to the 40th Oyster Regatta, held this year once more in Palma in

This year’s entrants included six Oyster 575s and the organisers

association with Real Club Nautico de Palma (RCNP). In warm and settled conditions,

decided to run a ‘575 Class’ within Class 2, starting all six Oyster

it was clear right from the start of the day that we would be waiting for the sea breeze

575s together. A great port tack flyer by Irene III at the pin end

to kick in from the south west in contrast to the north easterly gradient wind. Bang on

showed these 575s are in for a good week of tight competitive racing.

the predicted time of 1300 the Palma airport authorities switched the landing and take

Class 3 followed in two starting groups of four and by 1420 all yachts

off direction 180 degrees and the south westerly gently started. Building slowly at first,

had safely started.

by 1330 Paul Jackson, Race Officer, was confident we’d have a race and set the first start for 1400.

With a steady 8-10 knots for the first leg, the Class 1 fleet started to close up and despite the eight minutes of staggered starts, all the

As per the usual format in our regattas, the yachts race in classes, starting in smaller

yachts in Class 1 all rounded the first mark within a couple of minutes

groups for safety reasons and to limit the number of yachts on the line together.

of each other – setting the scene for some good racing for the rest of the week.

Race Day One, sponsored by Lewmar, started with Class 1 first, in pairs and at two minute intervals, the oldest and the youngest Oyster 82 – hulls number 1 –

The Race Officer had set a longer course for Class 1 taking them

Bare Necessities – and number 17 – Midnight, fought hard for the line position and

further out into the western end of the bay and Classes 2 and 3 were

Bare Necessities was just a few seconds OCS. Others in Class 1 were more cautious

set to loop inside Class 1. By 1530, after an hour and half of racing it

and steadily the fleet got under way.

was clear that the sea breeze had started to drop and Paul announced

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a course change for the smaller yachts. Shortening the courses for Classes 2 and 3 by

This year Oyster worked with

a few miles proved a wise decision and all yachts comfortably finished around 1700 –

local organisations Cleanwave

a great first day for the regatta.

and Asociación Ondine helping to promote their highly relevant

At the prize giving, Simon Bowen from Pantaenius kindly presented prizes for

‘Ride the wave to a plastic free

those who started best – noting that everyone seemed rather cautious in Classes 2

world’ campaign. This aims to raise

and 3 with the best being Oyster 625 Lady Mariposa at 16 seconds after the gun in

awareness and reduce the use of

Class 2 and Oyster 49 Pied Piper at 19 seconds in Class 3 and Simon’s great prizes

disposable plastics that ultimately end up in the sea. A large

started the rumblings of ‘must do better tomorrow!’

metal water bottle shaped container was placed on the Oyster dock, so that crews could refill their water containers with

With the shifty conditions there were some surprises in the results with Oyster 825

clean, filtered drinking water for free. This therefore helped

Maegan getting stuck in a hole in the wind and ending up last in Class 1. Great racing

to cut down the use of throwaway plastic bottles.

at the front of Class 1 however, produced some tight results. Oyster 885 Bacchus secured 4th in her first ever regatta, and Oyster 82 Starry Night in 3rd was pipped by

We were pleased to see so many of our Oyster owners and

just eight seconds by Oyster 885 Firebird in 2nd. A good win by Eddie Jordan and his

crews taking this environmental responsibility very seriously,

family sailing Oyster 885 Lush set the challenge for the rest of the week.

showing the care they have for the oceans they sail on and for our future generations.

Oyster 575 WikiWiki sailed a great race in Class 2 to take 1st place, also securing the win for the 575 Class – a rewarding start for her first ever Oyster Regatta. Similarly, Oyster 625 Orcinus in her first regatta took a well deserved 2nd place in Class 2.

It was close racing in Class 3 with Oyster 53 Ostra taking 2nd just two seconds ahead of Oyster 49 Pied Piper in 3rd, and only 40 seconds behind Oyster 54 Sara Blue V in 1st place, again showing how this event produces some exciting results from Corinthian sailing in the sunshine.

The youngest crew in the fleet were aged two and three sailing on Oyster 55 Shearwater but the race committee decided that the young sailor award was determinedly won by 11 year old twins on Oyster 575 Irene III, as pictured below right. Confident in their children’s ability whilst finishing at ~8 knots boat speed with the asymetric drawing well, the parents and the rest of the crew hid below and Irene III crossed the line with just the twins on deck, one at the helm and the other trimming the kite, as pictured below left – a great cheer went up and they won their special award. >>

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 43

RACE DAY TWO // RACE TWO // SPONSORED BY PELAGOS YACHTS A wonderful day of contrasts to the racing yesterday opened up the results and positioned

found their space and kites flew enthusiastically as the easterly first

many more yachts within the fleet ready to win the silverware. With nine of the 26

leg matured in the building south, south-westerly breeze.

yachts taking part in their first ever Oyster Regatta – in contrast to Oyster 82-14 Starry Night with 25 events already under her belt – the learning curve for some has been steep.

Babiana – the first Oyster 675 ever built and now enjoying her first

However, some of the new arrivals have shown very clearly that they have raced before –

ever Oyster Regatta – boldly elected for the rating option for using

Gregg Kelly and his team on Oyster 575 WikiWiki – swept through the variable conditions

more than one off-wind sail. Starting powerfully with her ‘cruising cut’

to be the clear leader overall after the two days – leading the 575 Class, leading Class 2 and

code zero, Babiana, quickly took distance from the rest of her class

being the lowest placed points overall across all classes – a really strong performance.

and with great crew work, hit the gybe mark fast, changing from code

Race Officer, Paul Jackson, patiently kept the fleet up to date with the evolving

Oyster events, knew exactly what she was doing.

zero to full Asymmetric, she showed that she too, as a first timer for weather conditions for nearly two hours as all waited for the sea-breeze to develop on Race Day Two, sponsored by Pelagos Yachts. By 1300 it became clear that the aspirations

In contrast, the carbon rig, race sails Kiev Yacht Club based Oyster 625

to repeat the focus of racing into the western side of Palma Bay as yesterday just wasn’t

Lady Mariposa, (and last year’s winner of Class 2) took the risk of

going to happen and that the breeze was most stable ~ten miles to the east. Rather than

goose-winging their 140% genoa and sailing shorter distances dead

make everyone track over to that side, Paul bravely called for downwind starts from the

downwind and trying to play with the rating advantage allowed if not

middle of the bay, with a heavily biased line. The fleet responded well and although this

using spinnakers.

meant up to six yachts starting together for a starboard beam reaching start, everyone

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Yesterday Lady Mariposa beat Babiana, today it was the other way round, and the needle match between these two yachts perhaps sets out what the Oyster Regattas are all about – you can be an Olympian, a Volvo sailor, a world champion in a one-design class – but come to an Oyster event, accept that some entrants have rarely raced and will happily race with a family crew, and you enter the Oyster world.

The 20 mile course for Class 1 and ~14 mile course for Classes 2 and 3, under the Oyster handicap system, generated some very close results.

In Class 3 places changed from yesterday; Oyster 49 Pied Piper won today, with Oyster 53 Ostra in 2nd and Oyster 54 Sara Blue V in 3rd – placing these three yachts only 0.25 points apart after two races. Class 2 similarly close and in Class 1, stalwarts Oyster 82 Starry Night just grabbed the day by 14 seconds from the first timers on Oyster 885 Bacchus.

As we move into day three, it’s all to play for, no clear winner in Class 1 and 3 with WikiWiki Oyster 575 determined to show she’s earned her lead thus far.

Bringing things firmly back to basics during the prize giving – held in the fantastic private Palau March Museum, as pictured below right – event Chairman, David Tydeman, expressed his thanks to Willii Gohl, the well respected International Sailing Judge for calmly solving a mark rounding incident between Firebird, Lush and Maegan.

One Oyster owner today (and wanting to remain anonymous) summed it up – “I bought a cruising yacht and got the bug to spend a few weeks a year racing as an amateur in these Oyster events. I pay some professionals to help keep me safe whilst doing this and I have no idea whether to listen to their views on ‘rights or wrongs’ – I applaud Oyster for bringing in an international judge, it helps me decide whether to listen to my race tactician!”

Race Day Three beckons with it all to play for in all Classes. Best three of four to count, there is no obvious winner at this half way stage. >>

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 45

RACE DAY THREE // RACE THREE // SPONSORED BY RAYMARINE A gentle day in the sunshine.

With only 5-7 knots of wind for most of the afternoon, Paul Jackson, Race Officer, had a big challenge on his hands to try to set a decent course for racing. Again off into the east of Palma Bay, the first yachts got away at 1345 starting, as always in smaller groups. In Class 1 the competitive spirit had developed and newcomers Oyster 885 Bacchus engaged with Oyster 825 Maegan in a tight match racing style boat to boat start – a great spectacle for others to watch whilst waiting to begin!

Oyster 53 Ostra in Class 3 similarly showed her competitive spirit and clearly she really wanted to win the Pantaenius sponsored starting prizes – she hit the line bang on the starting gun – one second earlier and she would have been OCS! The three mile beat across the bay was very shifty with the wind moving 30-40 degrees at times. This sorted out the fleet and by the top mark, the leaders for each Class were becoming clear.

Long gentle spinnaker runs back to the eastern side of the bay followed and although it was tough racing in the very light winds, the sun was shining, the blue sky clear and everyone was enjoying the luxury of their Oyster yachts.

Shortening courses around 1630 as the breeze started to drop away further, the Race Officer breathed a sigh of relief that we’d managed to get a race completed.

Engines on and speedily back to the dock, all the competitors rushed back for the Vondeling sponsored dock-party. Anthony and Sophie Ward, owners of both the Oyster 675 Babiana and the Vondeling vineyard in South Africa – were given a great cheer of thanks by the fleet for their generous hospitality as the Batu Cada local drumming band ‘brought the Mallorcan village culture to the dock’ and raised the tempo, as pictured opposite.

Adding to the colourful occasion, RCNP had set up a prize for the ‘best dressed crew’ on the day and with universal approval over the choice of the winners, Oyster 575 Briviba’s crew stepped up to receive the award in their penguin suits which they’d worn all day in the hot sunshine, also pictured opposite.

Raymarine kindly provided the prizes for Race Day Three with Oyster 885 Bacchus taking Class 1, WikiWiki again showing her strength in the 575s and Class 2 and Oyster 49 Pied Piper securing Class 3.

Points are incredibly close now as we head into the last day. With one discard allowed and best three out of four races to count, four yachts in Class 1 start the last day separated by just 0.25 of a point. With other close results in Class 2 and 3, there is everything to play for on the last day. >>

46 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 47

RACE DAY FOUR // RACE FOUR // SPONSORED BY DOLPHIN SAILS A celebration of a unique formula.

Who won what became – for a while – insignificant, as new friendships across the Oyster owner community developed and all

Race Day Four, sponsored by Dolphin Sails, had started with four yachts in Class 1

shared the bond of being Oyster owners and privileged guests and crew.

separated by just 0.25 of a point with Class 2 and 3 almost as close. As usual there would be a discard allowed, the best three out of the four races would count and so as the fleet

Then the drums started, the music piped up and the competitive spirit

motored out to the starting area, it was all about this last race.

was back – the day had been tough, difficult conditions, again fickle winds in the Palma Bay. Discussions developed on who had the best

The results were close – places being decided by small separations on corrected time –

tactics of the day, who hit the lay line too late, who tacked too many

less than a minute between 1st and 2nd in Class 1, less than ten seconds between 3rd

times and who made the best gybe on mark two.

and 4th in Class 3.

This wonderful formula of being able to race luxury cruising yachts, The Palacio de Congressos in the old Spanish town of Palma, as pictured above, proved a

safely yet competitively, is a unique formula that is a credit to both the

perfect setting for the prize giving of the 40th Oyster Regatta. With nearly 300 owners

people who run it and to the participants.

and crew gathered together in this wonderful setting, the atmosphere for the evening event started to build as the first coaches arrived from the yacht club berths. The fleet

Thanking the fleet, the sponsors, the Real Club Nautico de Palma

had enjoyed a great last day’s racing and were looking forward to a stylish and exciting

and the event management team, David Tydeman, Oyster CEO,

end to the regatta. Champagne, aromatic flowers, fine canapés and gentle chatter about

commented “…it never ceases to amaze me how both the first timers

the results, all helped to build the expectations for a wonderful and exclusive evening.

at an Oyster Regatta (and for many of these it’s also their first time

48 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

on a start line) and the experienced owners racing fully crewed up with experts on board – find a way of racing against each other in a true Corinthian style – it’s a great confirmation that being part of the Oyster family and enjoying the company of like minded individuals is what’s important…”

At the prize giving, Pantaenius presented prizes for best starts – all 26 yachts had tried hard – four yachts in Class 1 less than five seconds behind the gun. Overall the prize for best start of the day went to Oyster 825 Maegan in Class 1 – just one second behind the gun.

Oyster 575 WikiWiki voluntarily took a 20% place penalty in Class 2 for a port and starboard incident on the first beat letting Oyster 625 Tiger through to take Class 2, less than a minute ahead of Oyster 625 Lady Mariposa.

In Class 3, Oyster 53 Ostra just sealed the day ahead of her close rival Oyster 49 Pied Piper and similarly in Class 1, Oyster 885 Firebird squeezed just 50 seconds ahead of Oyster 885 Bacchus to take Class 1.

For the overall results, five out of 26 places were determined by count-back as yachts finished with the same number of points – a clear indication of close racing. Pied Piper won Class 3, just ahead of Ostra, WikiWiki secured Class 2 and the 575 Class, with 2nd, 3rd and 4th in Class 2 being taken by Oyster 625s.

The evening ended with the Class 1 results for the ‘battle of the 80 footers’ – as Oyster CEO, David Tydeman called it – and with Oyster 885s Firebird and Bacchus both ending up with 4.75 points. The sailing instructions were reviewed, the rules checked by Willii Gohl, the Head Judge, and Firebird was declared the winner. In her first ever regatta, Bacchus had shown her strengths and promises of ‘we’ll be back next year’ were made as the yachts toasted each other’s success.

Dancing continued late into the evening as owners and guests celebrated another very successful Oyster Regatta.

The next Oyster Regatta in Palma will be 25th-29th September 2018.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 49

OVERALL RESULTS CLASS

POSITION

YACHT NAME

MODEL

OWNER/SKIPPER

1

1 st

Firebird

885-07

Firebird Ocean Ltd.

2 nd

Bacchus

885-05

Richard Walker

3 rd

Starry Night

82-14

Starry Yachts

4 th

Lush

885-01

Eddie Jordan

5 th

Satori

745-01

Serida Trading Ltd.

6 th

Midnight

82-17

Richard Matthews

7 th

Maegan

825-03

Klaas Meertens & Marja De Pundert

8 th

Bare Necessities

82-01

Matt Newing

CLASS

POSITION

YACHT NAME

MODEL

OWNER/SKIPPER

2

1 st

WikiWiki

575-04

Gregg Kelly

2 nd

Orcinus

625-12a

Alvaro Santalucia

3 rd

Tiger

625-04

SY Tiger

4 th

Lady Mariposa

625-05

Vladimir Baksheev

5

Babiana

675-01

Sophie Ward

6 th

Coup de Foudre

575-33

Julian & Moira James

7 th

Angels' Share

575-31

Nick & Alison Blazquez

8 th

Briviba

575-30

Kevin Jones

9 th

Irene III

575-09

Irene III

10 th

Atalanta of London

575-22

Stephen Lambert

CLASS

POSITION

YACHT NAME

MODEL

OWNER/SKIPPER

3

1 st

Pied Piper

49-12a

Peter Blackmore

2 nd

Ostra

53-23

Ritchie Gatt

3 rd

Sara Blue V

54-11

Charles Billson

4 th

Iridescent

54-14

Andrew Fowles

5 th

Sionna

56-68

Mike Kearney

6 th

Nutcracker

53-18

Simon Timm

7 th

Shearwater

55-44

Charlie & Jo Bennett

8 th

Distraction

53-50

Simon Tysoe

th

View the full day-by-day results on our website: oysteryachts.com/palma-regatta2017

50 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

CLASS 1 WINNERS, FIREBIRD

CLASS 2 WINNERS, WIKIWIKI

CLASS 3 WINNERS, PIED PIPER CLASS 3 WINNERS, LISANNE

OYSTER REGATTA BERMUDA 2018 ZONE 2

POST EVENT OPTIONS

Azores

Bermuda ANTIGUA TO BERMUDA RACE

T

‘NO HE

R

’ MAL

ROUT

E

ZONE 1

ZONE 3

Antigua

DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES: 21ST- 26TH MAY 2018

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

The 41st Oyster Regatta will be welcomed to Bermuda by the island’s Tourism Authority, whose Chief Executive has committed his team to giving the fleet a wonderful combination of glorious sailing and fine dining on this historic island. Also welcomed by the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, we have mapped out a programme that will offer four days of Corinthian racing around three different areas of the island. May is the best month of the year we’re told; sunshine and sailing winds but without the humidity of June and July.

MONDAY 21ST MAY, registration during the afternoon and

Starting in the capital city of Hamilton with race one and two taking place in the

welcome evening reception at RBYC.

TUESDAY 22ND MAY, race one in the Great Sound, Zone 1 yachts return to berthing at RBYC and evening function at the National Gallery.

WEDNESDAY 23RD MAY, race two in the Great Sound, Zone 1, yachts berth at the Royal Naval Dockyard, evening function at the Commissioner’s House.

Great Sound, the event will include private parties in art galleries, amazing historic

THURSDAY 24TH MAY, lay-day, yachts can watch the annual

buildings, the landmark Commissioner’s House and the historic Royal Naval the island. ‘St. George’s Towne’, as it was once known, was where it all started around

Bermuda Regatta, and after the racing motor to St George’s, moor stern-to off the Heritage Centre, evening function at the Tempest Bistro.

500 years ago. After the final race along the spectacular south-eastern coastline, the

FRIDAY 25TH MAY, race three off St George’s, yachts motor

Dockyard. Race three will take the fleet around to St. George’s at the eastern end of

prize-giving party will be held inside the St. George’s World Heritage Centre.

Around 750nm due north from the British Virgin Islands, Bermuda is only a little left of track for those yachts en route from a Caribbean season to the Mediterranean

around to the race area Zone 2 or 3, no evening function.

SATURDAY 26TH MAY, race four off St George’s Zone 3, evening function and prize giving at the World Heritage Centre.

and just a little right of track for those heading to the eastern Seaboard USA. Deck cargo shipping options also available for the route home.

Give yourselves time to enjoy this visit. The island will make us very welcome and sponsorship has been secured to ensure this will be a very memorable event in the history of Oyster Regattas.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 51

www.astonmartin.com/DB11 Ofcial government fuel consumption gures in litres/100km (mpg) for the Aston Martin DB11: urban 16.6 (17); extra urban 8.5 (33.2); combined 11.4 (24.8). CO2 emissions 265 g/km. The mpg/fuel economy gures quoted are sourced from ofcial regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. They are for comparability purposes only and may not reect your real driving experience, which may vary depending on factors including road conditions, weather, vehicle load and driving style.

IN BUILD: DESIGN & TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS Exciting ideas have been flowing in the design office and in the project teams, keeping Oyster at the forefront of the industry. This report covers just a few of the new areas we continue to research and develop.

We’re ready to break new ground and offer a “Generator - Lithium Battery Bank - Electric Motor System” for running on-board systems and providing Hybrid Propulsion. Silent running at night for example, might be one of the great benefits, being more eco-friendly, of course, another. We’ll welcome the first client who’d like to help pioneer what we are sure is going to become a popular choice in the future. It’s harder to implement on the smaller yachts at present through limited availability for the key components, hence our first explorations have been with the new Oyster 835.

Pushing the boundaries even further, a special version of an Oyster 745 is being considered for the Mayflower Autonomous (unmanned) Research Ship project, for its transatlantic crossing in 2020. Supported by the Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling (shown on the right), this project was launched at the London International Shipping Week in October 2017.

WORDS & PHOTOS BY OYSTER

Tapping in to the unused power to charge the large battery bank

Oyster 595

Oyster 565 Autonomous 745

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 53

TRANSOM & KEEL OPTIONS

Oyster 595 Standard Profile With Standard HPB Keel

Oyster 595 Extended Transom With Centreboard Option

For more than a decade we’ve offered different keel options – standard draft, shoal

variations across the solutions for each model to ensure a cohesive fit

and super-shoal centreboard versions. With the new generation of hulls across the

with the owners’ choice for the interior layouts, however the

range from the Oyster 565 to the Oyster 118 fitted with twin rudders as standard,

principles remain the same.

selecting a reduced draft option is easier. Over the last decade, we’ve built and installed centreboards across Oysters ranging from the 575 to the 82 and from this proven heritage we’ve updated the engineering to offer centreboards on the 565 to the 895 - and are looking at the options for the Oyster 118.

Providing flexibility for shallow water cruising, we’ve found from recent Oyster Regatta results, that with the blade down, the centreboard versions can also point well against their standard keel counter-parts.

A simple, well-designed operating system uses a hydraulic ram, a solid tie-bar and a high tech (easily replaced) dyneema rope. The beautifully made blade rotates into a slot within the long ballast keel such that a locking pin can be inserted into the tie-bar to secure the blade in the raised position. There is one penetration through the hull for the control line and one for the emergency recovery line (which is routed in a tube up to the cockpit) – and thus both are above the waterline level. There are of course, small

Oyster 595

Centreboard part lowered & internal structure shown

54 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Centreboard raised

The tooling for moulding the hulls and decks of the new yachts is in several parts for each model. As the mould tool is prepared for the laminating of the hull to begin, the port and starboard halves are bolted together, the keel part is attached and the transom tool bolted in. This easily allows the choice of which keel part – standard or centreboard – and also which transom choice – vertical ‘extended’ transom or the more traditional forward sloping ‘retroussé’ transom. The deck tooling has been made over-length so that it is very easy for us to mould the transom and deck of choice without modification and ‘built to order’. It is worthy of note that the waterline length changes very little with the transom options.

The extended transom option has so far been chosen on two out of the three Oyster 745s built to date. It has been chosen for two out of the three contracts just signed for the new Oyster 595 and for one of the six new contracts signed for the Oyster 565. It’s a very personal choice. For some, the upright nature of the extended transom doesn’t appeal to the eye – for others, the shape matches the near vertical profile of the bow better and the advantages of a longer aft deck provides not only an enhanced entertaining space but also, a huge lazarette.

A well thought through engineering approach to the tooling design across the twin rudder range was the starting point for Oyster to be able to offer this flexibility and then the next steps also became easier. Would you like a large hydraulic-controlled bathing platform opening up from the transom? Would you like a dinghy garage instead of carrying the dinghy on davits or on the foredeck?

This in turn then created options with the interior to move the Owners’ Cabin forward and to provide twin aft cabins either side of the front of the dinghy garage.

The choice of bathing platform and a dinghy on davits then creates another challenge – how to get to the dinghy once it has been lowered with the davits? The owner of Oyster 675-01, as pictured below left, chose some fixed teak steps built in to the transom and bathing platform. This prompted the design of a beautiful flush fitting and folding set of steps that can be fitted across the range from the Oyster 565 to the new 895. Sized to match each yacht of course, we are now engineering an option to be able to unfold the steps by a swimmer in the water, adding an essential safety feature and providing another solution to getting out of the water that has become a safety regulation requirement.

Apparently simple issues at first glance, the way the team gets to grips with the challenges and how they engineer sound solutions is yet another good example of Oyster’s solid approach and attention to detail. Good planning, design and engineering produce the sort of quality solutions that the company is renowned for – all built on decades of experience gathered from ~75 circumnavigations, millions of sea miles and listening to owners.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 55

5 YEAR WARRANTY & NEW ENGINEERING Starting in 2014 with the design and development of the Oyster 745, the team looked

cable runs behind furniture and air-conditioning ducts to improve

at the way we create the internal structural configuration of the longitudinal and

both the installation and access for maintenance. Using inverted ‘L’

transverse stiffeners in the hull and the types of glass fibre used in the hull shell

shaped, carbon flanged and infused stiffeners dramatically reduced

laminations. Thinking about the cosmetic issues, we had learned over years that

the intrusion of this essential structure into the usable space below

to avoid print through from the use of woven-roving mat in the hull skin, that a

floorboards – thus improving the space efficiency of the layouts of

boundary layer of E-glass CSM (chopped strand mat) was essential.

the internal structure.

Similarly, careful design and positioning of the internal structure and its attachment

The diagrams below show the design layouts of the internal

to the inside of the hull, can avoid it being seen from the outside as faint ‘creases’

structure and the interfaces with equipment for the Oyster 575

in the topsides. Using different types of gel-coat can help when coloured hulls are

on the left and the new Oyster 565 on the right. The linearity of

wanted without causing too much concern over pigment separation and fade in

the newer design and how the equipment can be more efficiently

sunlight. Switching to a closed cell, high density PVC foam sandwich for the topsides

installed between the structure is clearly visible.

also improved strength, increased insulation and enhanced the overall design.

At the bottom of the page, a photo of the area below the master What the team addressed was also how to maximise the available space below the

cabin on the Oyster 675, matches the CATIA software 3D design,

floorboards for pipework, machinery and equipment. Similarly, how to redesign the

emphasising that good solutions start with planning every cubic

Oyster 575

56 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Oyster 565

Demoulding of the first Oyster 565 hull

centimetre in the design office, aligning the effort of structural engineering and space planning.

The size of the PVC foam used in some of the other stiffeners has been made much smaller by the application of carbon strips at the top and bottom, thus forming a sort of ‘carbon I-form girder’, which is stronger, stiffer and less space hungry in the areas below the floorboards and behind furniture. Infused bulkheads again saved space and helped the plans for reducing noise and vibration transmission inside the yacht. Careful orientation of carbon planking on the bulkheads produced stronger structures which could take higher loads and improve the overall efficiency of the design.

The solutions chosen for the Oyster 745 have then been rolled out across the whole

Oyster 565

range of the twin rudder new yachts. The Oyster 675 was first, then the 118, the 565 and the 595, and now finally with the new 835 and 895.

All of these yachts now use Vinylesther resins for stronger mechanical properties and the lamination schedule for the hull uses E-glass multi-axial woven fabrics. The photo above shows the first Oyster 565 just out of the mould tool. Always an exciting day in the moulding process.

Efficient structures, higher strength components, good space and orientation planning come with another benefit – a small weight saving. These latest designs are perhaps 10% lighter than their predecessors and place the weight generally lower down contributing a bit more to sailing performance. Given that the overall weight of the composite hull and deck is perhaps 20% of the overall lightship weight of the yacht, this does

Oyster 565

only become ~2% in the overall yacht. Oyster yachts are designed for long-distance comfortable cruising on the world’s oceans and whilst our design and projects team are now looking at some carbon lightweight yachts for a couple of Oyster owners (see pages 66-67) our ‘standard range’ will stay medium displacement, built out of female mould tooling. It is, however, good to know that within the team, we have proven capability in higher tech materials and we can successfully apply that learning to improve all the little things in the designs.

Overall, these efforts gave us the confidence to now provide a five-year structural warranty for new-build yacht contracts. Supported by a two-year general warranty for the rest of Oyster workmanship, this is a further endorsement of Oyster’s determination to continue to lead by design.

Oyster 118

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 57

LATEST OYSTER SUPERYACHTS

Oyster 895

Oyster 835

Developed from the very successful Oyster 825 and 885 – of which 17 have been built – the new Oyster 835 and 895 use the same hull mould tools but with a new deck tooling and new, more efficient internal space engineering (see pages 56-57). The deck has been extended by about one foot and the rake of the standard transom increased accordingly. Of a total of about 20 different mould tools used for the 825 and the 885, only four parts are being continued for use with the two new yachts.

Extended transom versions will be available (see the article pages 54-55) together with dinghy garage options, larger lazarette spaces and different interior layouts. However, the extended transom version for the 895 does take the yacht over the MCA 24 metre rule and thus into different commercial coding – such a yacht would best be used for private, personal use only.

Well proven on the fantastic, just launched Oyster 885-08 Ayni (see photos opposite) the standard option for the Oyster 895 is the lower level floor providing a spacious saloon with full width seating extending under the deck. Ayni also features an amazing Master Suite providing a private study and TV area adjoining the master bedroom.

Oyster 895

58 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

The new deck tooling is cleverly engineered so that a deck for either the Oyster 835 or the 895 can be taken from it trimming the edges down when used for the smaller yacht. The existing Raised Deck tooling – as used on three of the Oyster 885s to date – can similarly be used on either of the new yachts, so we are pleased to be able to offer a range of options for exterior profile, saloon layouts and superstructure height on these new designs.

The window line has been extended and winches moved behind the pedestals, see render on page 58. This, together with the longer aft deck and increased transom rake, gives these two new designs a styling lift first used by Oyster with the 745 and 675.

The cockpit in the 835 is ~500mm longer than its predecessor, enhancing the outdoor dining options and for both the new yachts, the anchor launch and recovery system has been re-engineered, the bow ‘prodder’ made a foot longer and it now incorporates a ‘rocker’ system to smooth out the anchor chain handling and control the loads more efficiently.

Oyster 885 Ayni – Raised Deck & Low Level Saloon

By sharing tooling across these two yachts, which we didn’t think about enough when we designed the Oyster 885 in 2010 and the 825 a year later, and adopting the new structural configurations proven on the 118 and the other sister-ships (see pages 54 and 55) we have significantly upgraded the way in which these yachts can be fitted out. We have improved the use of interior space, pipe runs, cabling, positioning of electrical systems and created smoother designs for air-conditioning ducting.

Learning from developing the Oyster 118 and from building the Oyster 100s and the 125 a few years ago, we have brought our best Superyacht experience into these two new yachts.

Deciding to retain the well proven hull shapes and rely on good positive feedback about the handling characteristics and the longdistance comfortable cruising ranges for the 825 and 885, allowed us to focus on detailed design, styling upgrades, more efficient structural design and better engineering without a need to change the investment in hull tooling.

The new Oyster 835 and 895 will be magnificent yachts, each worthy of the title of being an Oyster Superyacht. First deliveries are available for late summer 2019.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 59

LATEST OYSTER SUPERYACHTS CONTINUED The first Oyster 118 will leave the build shed in May 2018. The second hull and deck

workshops, the design alternates vertical and horizontal grain for

are being moulded in our new in-house Superyacht moulding facility at Merlin

the maple, interleaved with recessed strips of walnut. Reversing

Quay, which also housed the 118-01 deck (see page opposite) that was moved to

the contrast of dark and light woods with maple inlaid into walnut

Saxon Wharf in November. Located just 0.5nm down river from the Saxon Wharf

planks for the flooring, the second Oyster 118 will be stunning inside.

shipyard, the hull and deck will be barged across in May 2018 and the fit-out of

With a huge 90 cubic metre master-suite aft (scaling up the 50 cubic

118-02 will then commence.

metre version built for Ayni, see page 59) this yacht will be truly a

The Oyster 118 is one of the most exciting projects in the UK at this time. The sail trials

of ability to take many friends off on adventures and yet allow him to

for 118-01 will run during summer 2018 and we can’t wait to see her on the Solent.

retreat away from guests and the crew into his own spacious suite for

Her 51-metre high mast (above waterline – see opposite page – the mast wrapped and

peace and quiet!

home from home. She will provide her owner with a wonderful mix

waiting delivery from Southern Spars in Auckland) carrying her huge new North Sails will be a sight to behold. She has a dark blue hull with a beautiful interior crafted in American light ash and polished walnut, she will turn heads wherever she goes.

The two 118 owners have different approaches to the saloon spaces, navigation areas and the crew spaces up front. The owner of 118-01 wants to be able to fold away the navigation stations when not in use

The owner for whom we are building 118-02 has commissioned a well renowned

at anchor to make the saloon space feel more like the drawing room

furniture design company Silverlining to style the interior. Tracking down some

at home. In contrast the owner of 118-02 wants a purposeful looking

very special maple veneers in the USA and having these shipped to the Saxon Wharf

60 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

‘captain’s chair’ facing on to a well laid-out control centre.

Oyster 118-01 deck move

Oyster 118

Oyster 118-01 mast

The hull and deck for 118-03 could start moulding in June 2018 and Oyster 118-02 moulding facility

thus fit-out could start in early 2019 for handover in winter 2020 or preferably early spring 2021, a year behind 118-02, despite the fact that these yachts take just over 2.5 years from start of moulding to handover. We have planned resources and facilities such that the Merlin Quay moulding shed can be used for the fit-out of 118-03 running overlapped with 118-02 still building at Saxon Wharf.

This commitment to forward planning and logistics is yet another example of the way in which we have lifted our game across so many different areas over the last ~eight years since we conceived the first of the twin rudder G6 yachts in 2010.

The detailed engineering of these flagship 118 Superyachts for Oyster is amazing; high quality in every respect and such that it truly endorses the heritage of the team building these yachts.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 61

35 YEARS OF SPECIAL PROJECTS Leopard Refit 2012

Shamrock V Refit 1980/81

Southampton Yacht Services (SYS) was acquired by the Oyster Group in 2003. All of its shipwrights, engineers, joiners and design staff were gradually merged with the Oyster HQ Design Team and project engineering teams. Building up from the early 1980s with the restoration of the J Class Shamrock V and then later with the J Class Velsheda, the SYS depth of knowledge comfortably fits with the experience developed within the Oyster Group since the first Oyster 82 was engineered ~15 years ago. A wide range of custom projects on composite vessels by the combined team over the last decade has also broadened the capabilities of the Southampton shipyard. Smaller projects have also been a steady part of what this team has carried out, whether on Oyster yachts, classics, race yachts or other vessels. Increasingly we have also carried out work for owners wanting our services on their yachts based in the Mediterranean and to respond to this, we set up our refit and service operations in Palma, Mallorca.

62 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Velsheda Refit 1996, 2005

Sealion

Superyacht tenders

Mari-Char III

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 63

35 YEARS OF SPECIAL PROJECTS CONTINUED

The Oyster Service Centre (OSC) in Palma has been growing steadily over the last couple of years under the care of Mark Durham, successfully evolving into a committed and dynamic team that aspires to uphold the reputation for Oyster customer care and to build on the heritage of SYS. There are now 20 people in the team able to take on a variety of different projects, helping owners and crew with refit and maintenance. Investment in facilities includes a fabrication workshop, a tender service and storage operation and two workshop containers for use on site with refit projects.

There is a peace of mind that comes from an Oyster owned facility with Oyster staff on hand to help deal with any issue. With direct access to Oyster HQ and to both the build records of Oyster yachts and the project records of SYS, the team is both a gateway to the resources of the rest of the Oyster Group and a local capability to deliver solutions, large or small.

Steve Colley recently joined OSC Palma as Service Manager from Oyster UK after eight years in Southampton in a similar role. Steve runs the service team of engineers, shipwrights, electricians and painters and is always available for advice when required.

The office is run by Evelyne Dupont who speaks four languages fluently and oversees the administration team. Her team can assist with all manner of enquiries including berthing and freight.

64 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

For the Oyster yachts under 60ft that are looking for medium to long term berthing

maintenance and refit work in spring 2017. Work is underway for

in Palma there is the opportunity to berth at the exclusive Real Club Nautico de

the same survey for Penelope and Twilight which will take place in

Palma – Oyster underwrite 20 berths year-round and it has become a home base for

spring 2018. In between these projects, Hamish likes to pretend he

a number of Oyster owners and their yachts with flexibility for yachts to come and go

has actually retired to his farm in South Africa!

with support from the OSC team.

As the reputation of the OSC team has grown they have worked On average there are between 50-70 Oysters in Palma at any one time throughout the

on yachts from other build yards – Wally, Yachting Developments,

year. Approximately 20 of these Oysters are previously owned yachts for sale through

Persico/Maxi 72, X-Yachts, Swan, San Lorenzo, Hallberg-Rassy

Oyster Brokerage. Our guardienage and service centre teams look after at least a third

and Sabre to name a few – however the Palma team’s priority

of the visiting Oysters and those permanently berthed in Palma.

will always be on providing a high quality service to Oyster yacht owners and their crews.

The Palma guardienage team, run by Mike Barnes (ex Royal Navy and professional mariner), look after 20 boats of varying sizes, from 45ft-90ft. This diverse service

As part of continuing to explore design and innovation ideas across

includes concierge and cleaning services, and helps owners maintain and manage

the Group, the Oyster Custom and Refit team at HQ are starting to

their yachts from a distance. This can also give the chance for crew to take time off

look beyond the Oyster 118 and at some very exciting projects. We

during gaps in a busy season.

are considering options to expand our Southampton facilities a bit

The Palma team also act as a gateway for larger special projects – either for completion

745, 835, 895 and 118 new builds, we can confidently confirm our

in Palma, or for work back at the Southampton shipyard.

position as one of the best yards in the world for classic, custom new

more over the next 18 months so that, in parallel with the Oyster

builds and refits.

Hamish Burgess-Simpson, well known amongst Oyster owners for his great knowledge and passion for the Oyster fleet, has proved to be a great asset in the team.

Whether it is supporting the Palma office, undertaking precision

Hamish managed the build in Turkey of the two Oyster 100s – Sarafin and Penelope –

timber work for an old classic, the interior of a new Oyster 118,

and the Oyster 125 Twilight.

building a carbon epoxy ‘lifeboat-custom launch’ combination for an owner of a Megayacht (see page 63), or whether it’s updating systems

As these yachts came due for their 5-year Lloyd’s Classification surveys, the owners

on 100ft+ carbon-titanium race yachts, this combined team is firmly

and skippers valued having Hamish’s depth of knowledge locally available. Led

open for business and places a huge emphasis on customer service.

by Hamish, the OSC team completed the Sarafin Lloyd’s survey and associated

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 65

FUTURE PROJECTS

Reichel-Pugh 110, styled by Oyster Design

Oyster Style Deck

Reichel-Pugh 110 Interior Layout

66 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

We’ve always had the appetite for special new-build projects and have pulled together

different weight/length ratio. Both use telescopic lifting keels to

partnerships and sometimes rented dedicated facilities around the Solent to make

provide the option for shallower draft at anchor.

them happen. We partnered with race yacht specialists Green Marine* for the custom tenders shown in the previous pages and have worked with many other specialists in

Carbon, lightweight yachts are exciting to sail but motions and

the lightweight and performance sector.

accelerations can be less appealing for world cruising, they are certainly a different product to the Oyster 895 or 118. The choice

Between 2008 and 2010, we delivered nearly £30m sales of special projects in

is perhaps akin to a decision about whether to use the Range

parallel with the last of the Oyster 72s and 82s in our Southampton shipyard. Some

Rover or the Aston Martin. One is definitely fun for the blast to

of this team then helped us develop the Oyster 100 and 125 in Turkey, equally

the golf club, but the other you’d choose for the longer drive up

‘special projects’.

to the Scottish Highlands.

Two Oyster owners have asked us to look at their projects, featured here. Both are for

The Oyster 565 to the 118 are medium displacement yachts – the

owners who want to race under the ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) Superyacht rule

‘Range Rover’; the RP 110 and HYD 105, shown here are the Aston.

and have some fast cruising in between.

We’re capable of building both medium displacement and lighter The design shown opposite is a 110ft, ~90 tonne carbon-epoxy, Reichel-Pugh hull

weight yachts and over the next 12-24 months we are carefully

design and naval architecture. Interior and exterior styling by Oyster’s in-house

looking at expanding our facilities, leveraging our broad capabilities

Design Team. This is for an Oyster owner wanting to race and at times ‘fly to the

and taking on some very special projects like these.

yacht’ rather than cruise long distance. We have some other expressions of interest in this design and hence we may consider making female tooling to be able to build

*Editor’s note: Sadly, Green Marine went into administration in October

a small series of these yachts.

2017 which has impacted our planning. These projects will take time to move from feasibility to reality.

Above, the Humphreys Yacht Designs’ version at 105ft, ~95 tonnes, is for another Oyster yacht owner who wants a bit more volume in the hull and hence a

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 67

OYSTER 565 FOR FAMILY AND SHORTHANDED SAILING WITH A SUPERYACHT FEEL

OYSTER 565: AN OVERVIEW The Oyster 565 is the entry level yacht for the ‘G6’ fleet of seven models up to the

DIMENSIONS

Flagship Oyster 118. Using the latest generation of Oyster hull shapes, developed

Length Overall – (Including Stemhead)

18.09m

59’ 3”

Length of Waterline

15.93m

52’ 3”

Oyster 56 and the Oyster 575, the new Oyster 565 provides the essential fourth cabin

Beam

5.13m

16’ 10”

which can be used as a utility space or for an extra bunk. A generous sail locker and

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

2.50m

8’ 2”

Draft – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

1.66m/3.96m

5’ 5”/ 13’ 0”

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

25,570kg

56,370lb

Displacement – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

27,587kg 60,818lb

Standard Rig and Spar Type

Semi-fractional sloop with in-mast furling mainsail and non-overlapping headsail

Available Rig Options

Removable inner storm jib stay, cutter and double headed rigs or self-tacking headsail

with Humphreys Yacht Design, the Oyster 565 is designed for family sailing without professional crew. Developed from years of experience building ~120 versions of the

lazarette, headroom and bunk lengths to match the larger Oyster Superyachts, the 565 can be configured with many different cabin layouts – and for the first time in Oyster – can have the Master Cabin forward and a dinghy garage in the transom (as shown on page 73).

Different sail and rig combinations are also available and reflect the learning from how to optimise for either the Oyster World Rallies or for regattas and coastal cruising.

68 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Oyster 565 Sail Plan

Oyster 565 Deck Plan

Oyster 565 Interior Layout

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 69

OYSTER 595 OPTIMISED FOR ISLAND HOPPING OR OCEAN PASSAGES ALIKE

OYSTER 595: AN OVERVIEW Designed to fit between the Oyster 565 and the Oyster 675 as part of a family of three yachts, the Oyster 595 is a voluminous sub-60 footer that can be handled by

DIMENSIONS Length Overall – (Including Stemhead)

19.05m

62’ 6”

smaller and larger sisters, the Oyster 595 can have the Master Cabin forward and

Length of Waterline

16.81m

55’ 2”

a dinghy garage aft. Spacious sail lockers and lazarette ensure that this yacht can

Beam

5.36m

17’ 7”

comfortably cruise long distances.

Draft – HPB Keel

2.68m

8’ 10”

Versatile, stylish and a modern hull shape – the perfect family yacht for ocean adventures.

Draft – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

1.79m/4.06m

5’ 10”/13’ 4”

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

30,807kg

67,918lb

Displacement – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

33,324kg 73,467lb

Standard Rig and Spar Type

Semi-fractional sloop with in-mast furling mainsail and non-overlapping headsail

Available Rig Options

Removable inner storm jib stay, cutter and double headed rigs or self-tacking headsail

just two people. With many layout options, (including a five cabin version) like its

As with the 565, the rig and sail combinations reflect our learning from the Oyster World Rallies and other events.

70 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Dinghy Garage Option

Oyster 595 Sail Plan

Oyster 595 Deck Plan

Oyster 595 Interior Layout

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 71

OYSTER 625 HANDCRAFTED FIT-OUT TO A LUXURIOUS STANDARD USUALLY FOUND ONLY ON MUCH LARGER YACHTS

OYSTER 625: AN OVERVIEW The triple award-winning, innovative Oyster 625 is a superb example of

DIMENSIONS

contemporary styling both above and below deck and is designed for comfortable

Length Overall – (Including Pulpit)

19.37m

63’ 7”

Length of Waterline

16.67m

54’ 8”

Beam

5.44m

17’ 10”

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

2.75m

9’ 0”

Draft – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

1.73m/4.03m

5’ 8”/13’ 3”

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

33,500kg 73,854lb

Displacement – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

35,000kg 77,000lb

Standard Rig and Spar Type

Semi-fractional sloop with fully battened main

Available Rig Options

In-mast furling, in-boom furling, cutter rig, non-overlapping and double headsail rigs

liveaboard, ‘family and friends’ easy sailing. With more than 20 sold thus far, Oyster continues to enjoy working with owners as they personalise their Oyster 625 and stretch the design opportunities.

Our open approach to interior design and detailing has produced excitingly different feels to the accommodation – sometimes crisp and very modern, sometimes dark and classic. The platform is yours to develop and we love working with your ideas. The sumptuous aft Owners’ Cabin is full beam and has private access to the aft deck. There are two generous Guest Cabins, each with their own heads and shower, and a fourth cabin that can be configured as a workshop, additional Guest Cabin or a children’s cabin with linked access from the Master Cabin.

The Oyster 625 interior options also include a forepeak arrangement for a full-time crew member with berth and heads, should operational assistance be required, and shoal/centreboard options are available.

72 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

SAIL PLAN

625

INTERIOR LAYOUT

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

DECK PLAN

Oyster 625 Interior Layout

Copyright of these drawings is the property of Oyster Marine Ltd and they may not be published or reproduced without written permission.

These drawings are for promotional use only and may show optional equipment. They are subject to change without notice, and cannot form part of any contract or offer.

625

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 73

Copyright of these drawings is the property of Oyster Marine Ltd and they may not be published or reproduced without written permission.

Copyright of these drawings is the property of Oyster Marine Ltd and they may not be published or reproduced without written permission.

These drawings are for promotional use only and may show optional equipment. They are subject to change without notice, and cannot part of any offer.

These drawings are for form promotional use contract only andormay show optional equipment. They are subject to change without notice, and cannot form part of any contract or offer.

Oyster 625 Deck Plan 625

Oyster 625 Sail Plan

OYSTER 675 STYLE, FUNCTION AND PASSIONATE PERFORMANCE

OYSTER 675: AN OVERVIEW Designed in line with her larger sister, the Oyster 745, the first Oyster 675 is a very

DIMENSIONS

personal yacht. Significantly larger in volume than her predecessors – the Oyster

Length Overall – (Including Stemhead)

21.07m

69’ 1”

Length of Waterline

18.31m

60’ 0”

designed into this flexible hull form the diversity to focus on smooth cruising or

Beam

5.65m

18’ 6”

regatta results with a carbon rig and hi-tech sails.

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

2.94m

9’ 8”

With two spacious double guest en-suite cabins complementing the full beam Master

Draft – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

1.90m/4.43m

6’ 3’’/14’ 6’’

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

40,787kg 89,920lb

Displacement – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

42,560kg 93,830lb

Standard Rig and Spar Type

Semi-fractional sloop with in-mast furling mainsail and removable inner storm stay.

Available Rig Options

Cutter rig, in-boom furling and double headsail rigs

655 and 66 – the 675 allows the owners great scope to build a yacht to suit his or her private needs. Performance means different things to different owners, so we have

Cabin and a fourth cabin for crew (with options for en-suite facilities), the Oyster 675 brings together choices to detail the yacht for family, for occasional charter or for long-distance exploring and adventure, with professional help aboard. She is also available with an Owners’ Cabin forward layout.

As with the Oyster 745, there is a choice of rigs and an extended transom version, and with either the swinging centreboard or standard keel, comfortable performance is guaranteed, with reassuring, stable control from twin rudders. She is fast, comfortable and equally suited to long passages or ‘bit between the teeth’ day racing on the Oyster Regatta circuit.

74 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Oyster 675 Sail Plan

Oyster 675 Deck Plan

Oyster 675 Interior Layout

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 75

OYSTER 745 ELEGANT, POWERFUL AND INDIVIDUAL

Extended Transom

OYSTER 745: AN OVERVIEW Denoting a sleek evolution of Oyster’s signature performance bluewater cruising yachts,

DIMENSIONS

the Oyster 745 is designed to fit between the ‘family and friends’ Oyster 565–675 and

Length Overall – (Including Stemhead)

22.74m

74’ 7”

Length of Waterline

20.03m

65’ 9”

format and brings a sense of the sailing coupé with her distinctive Deck Saloon, extended

Beam

5.91m

19’ 5”

in clean symmetry with a sheerline that points to power and adventure. The first three

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

3.10m

10’ 2”

Draft – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

2.10m/4.68m

6’ 11’’/15’ 4’’

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

53,957kg 118,955lb

Displacement – Supershoal Centreboard (Optional)

57,000kg 125,660lb

Standard Rig and Spar Type

Semi-fractional sloop with Fully battened main

Available Rig Options

In-mast furling, in-boom furling, cutter rig and double-headed rig

the 835–895 with their separate crew quarters. Replacing the highly successful 72/725, of which an impressive 17 were built, the Oyster 745 introduces a new hull, twin rudder

745s are uniquely different – endorsing Oyster’s willingness to customise.

With a choice of rigs, the sail plan can be optimised for fully-crewed regatta speed or kept smaller for short-handed sailing; from carbon rigs and fully battened mainsails to cutter and joystick furling for friends and family sailing. The enabler behind this versatility is Oyster’s new twin rudder hull configuration from naval architect Rob Humphreys; Oyster and Humphreys Yacht Design are the first ever to have so extensively researched and tank-tested this arrangement solely for performance cruisers.

The extended transom version (pictured above) further increases the practical nature of this latest Oyster design with increased lazarette space for all that essential cruising gear and a magnificent aft deck entertaining space. To suit all international sailing grounds, the Oyster 745 is also available with centreboard or standard keel options.

76 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Extended Transom

Oyster 745 Sail Plan

Oyster 745 Deck Plan

Oyster 745 Interior Layout

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 77

OYSTER 835 OCEAN ADVENTURES - DEVELOPED FROM A PROVEN HERITAGE AND MILLIONS OF OCEAN SAILING MILES

OYSTER 835: AN OVERVIEW The design signature of the Oyster 835 includes the deck, transom rake and window

DIMENSIONS (PROVISIONAL)

lines to match both the smaller and larger yachts. This new yacht includes upgraded

Length Overall – (Including Stemhead)

25.48m

83’ 7”

Length of Waterline

21.97m

79’ 3.5”

Beam

6.31m

20’ 8”

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

3.42m

11’ 3”

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

66,000kg 145,500lb

systems developed for the flagship Oyster 118. For example, the standard specification now includes a captive reel mainsheet system and an anchor-rocker system on the bow prodder for easier handling of large anchors.

A carbon mast is standard, as are North Sails. A high basic specification ensures that this new model provides a Superyacht experience comfortably below the MCA 24 metre Large Yacht Code – and thus is designed for the owner who also wishes to consider chartering his or her yacht to efficiently offset running costs.

The living spaces on the Oyster 835 are versatile and depend on whether you wish to use the yacht with two, three or four crew. The standard interior layout (shown on the opposite page) separates the crew space well from the owners’ accommodation, putting crew cabins up front, ahead of the open plan galley. There are three other layouts available for this yacht with an enlarged Master Suite and alternative forward layouts.

78 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

A centreboard, shoal draft version is also available.

825 SALOON VARIANTS

Low Level Saloon with Standard Deck

Oyster 835 Sail Plan

High Level Saloon with Raised Deck

Oyster 835 Deck Plan Copyright of these drawings is the property of Oyster Marine Ltd and they may not be published or reproduced without written permission.

These drawings are for promotional use only and may show optional equipment. They are subject to change without notice, and cannot form part of any contract or offer.

Oyster 835 Interior Layout

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 79

OYSTER 895 OCEAN ADVENTURES - WITH MORE THAN 40 YACHTS OVER 80FT, OYSTER BRINGS A WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE TO BEAR WITH THE 895.

OYSTER 895: AN OVERVIEW Designed to efficiently comply with commercial coding, the Oyster 895 offers up to four

DIMENSIONS (PROVISIONAL)

cabins, all en-suite, for the owner and his or her guests, supported by four crew in two

Length Overall – (Including Stemhead)

27.122m

89’ 0”

Length of Waterline

24.18m

79’ 4”

and three saloon configurations enable the owner to have wonderful flexibility to make

Beam

6.33m

20’ 9”

this a very personal yacht.

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

3.46m

11’ 4”

A carbon mast is standard, as are North Sails. A high basic specification ensures that

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

69,500kg

153,220lb

cabins. A clear separation of crew and galley quarters from the owners’ accommodation creates the feel of a much larger Superyacht. Two different deck superstructure options

this new model provides the Superyacht experience below the MCA 24 metre Large Yacht Code – and thus is designed for the owner who also wishes to consider chartering his or her yacht to efficiently offset running costs.

There are three areas of choice and personalisation; two or three cabins aft, convert the 4th forward port Guest Cabin into additional saloon space, and your choice of saloon arrangement. There is also an option of a high level saloon with the Raised Deck.

The benefit of the low level saloon configuration is the option to extend the saloon seating under the side decks. Available with either the Standard or Raised Deck, the low level saloon version creates a Superyacht sense of space and comfort.

80 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

A centreboard, shoal draft version is also available.

885 SALOON VARIANTS

Low Level Saloon with Standard Deck

Oyster 895 Sail Plan

Split Level Saloon with Standard Deck

High Level Saloon with Raised Deck

Oyster 895 Deck Plan

Copyright of these drawings is the property of Oyster Marine Ltd and they may not be published or reproduced without written permission.

These drawings are for promotional use only and may show optional equipment. They are subject to change without notice, and cannot form part of any contract or offer.

Oyster 895 Interior Layout

Sail plan, deck plan and interior layout above shows standard configurations, more options are available.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 81

OYSTER 118 THE FLAGSHIP FROM THE OYSTER/HUMPHREYS YACHT DESIGN PARTNERSHIP

OYSTER 118: AN OVERVIEW A true Superyacht at nearly 123ft overall including the bowsprit, the Oyster 118 offers its

DIMENSIONS

owner a truly global adventure. Built to DNV-GL classification standards and compliant

Length Overall – (Including Bowsprit)

37.45m

122’ 10”

Length of Waterline

32.98m

108’ 2”

Beam

8.35m

27’ 5”

Draft – HPB Keel (Standard)

4.00m

13’ 2”

Displacement – HPB Keel (Standard)

159 tonnes

350,758lb

Standard Rig and Spar Type

Semi-fractional carbon sloop with in-boom furling fully battened mainsail, furling genoa and removable storm staysail.

Available Rig Options

Roller reefing staysail

with the MCA LY3 ‘Large Yacht Code’, Oyster has developed this design to offer each owner the opportunity to significantly customise his or her yacht, whilst retaining the benefits of a low maintenance gel coat finish from a female mould tool.

Approaching the design in three principal areas: the accommodation aft, the guest and crew options forward and the expansive saloon space – many permutations are possible.

Options allow for a huge Master Suite aft supported by two/three Guest Cabins or up to five Guest Cabins and a smaller Master Cabin.

One thing is for certain – the six crew layout will provide a wonderful environment for the owner and guests – whether that is six crew supporting 10-14 guests or perhaps six just looking after the owner and partner in unbridled luxury.

82 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Oyster 118 Interior Layout - Standard

Oyster 118 Interior Layout - Master Suite and 3 Guest Cabins

Oyster 118 Interior Layout - Example 2: Master Cabin and 6 Guest Cabins

Oyster 118 Deck Plan

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 83

NEW ARRIVALS

RECENTLY LAUNCHED OYSTERS SYMPHONY

TO: KINGSHIP INVESTING

OYSTER OYSTER 475 625

Oyster 475-04 Symphony was very much admired when she was on display at the London On-Water Show at St Katharine Docks in April 2017. After many years of chartering this is the owner’s first yacht and she was built with short-handed cruising and family sailing in mind. Her maiden voyage was an adventurous six week cruise of Norway, where she proved herself in all weather conditions. Following a quick pit-stop in Ipswich, Symphony has continued to the calmer climes of northern Spain with plans for extended cruising in the Azores next summer.

AQUILINA

TO: GARY & CAROLANN STEINHOFF

OYSTER 475

Oyster 475-06 Aquilina was handed over to Gary and Carolann Steinhoff in beautiful British Columbia in perfect conditions. She is a beautiful teak boat that the owners are genuinely thrilled with. They intend to keep the boat in and around British Columbia for the next couple of years and will be looking to cruise further afield in the future.

HATTIE FISHER

TO: TIM & KAREN PROCTOR

OYSTER OYSTER 475 625

Oyster 475-05 was handed over to her owners, Tim and Karen Proctor, in Long Island, New York with sail trials conducted on a beautiful day in Gardiners Bay. Hattie Fisher will be based in Sag Harbor in the Hamptons to allow Tim and Karen time to familiarise themselves with their new yacht, before exploring further up the US East Coast in years to come.

BELLA ROSE

TO: BARRY LANESMAN

OYSTER 545

Bella Rose is Barry’s second Oyster having previously owned an Oyster 46 with the same name. Handover took place on a glorious summer day in Ipswich, with daughter, Ruby and Andra, the Hungarian Vizsla also in attendance. Bella Rose is being berthed on the Oyster dock in Palma over the winter, before cruising the western Mediterranean next year. After that, the plan is to sail further afield, with a view to joining the Oyster World Rally in 2021.

84 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

VIDA MIA V

TO: TEAM VIDA MIA

proud of their new yacht, and of being the first Japanese owners to specify a new Oyster.

After a gloriously sunny handover in Ipswich, Vida Mia V was sailed to St. Katharine Docks for a traditional Shinto blessing followed by a Champagne launch. They then cruised the south coast of England, northern France and Spain, before heading to Cannes Yachting Festival in September. Following a few years in the Mediterranean/ Caribbean, Vida Mia V will ultimately head for Japan.

SILHOUETTE

OYSTER 575

Oyster 575-40 Vida Mia V was handed over to Japanese owners in May. They are very

TO: BRUNO & MYRIAM CLAUDE

As experienced yacht owners, Bruno and Myriam, who usually sail double-handed, took an active role in the project and were thoroughly involved in all aspects of the build. Plans for the boat include a few years in the Mediterranean getting used to a larger yacht before heading over to the Caribbean and USA.

NIKITOO

TO: HUGH JOHNSON

There are a number of interesting tweaks to the standard boat, not least of which is the 70 litre rum tank complete with deck filler and proper commercial pump with which to access the contents. In fact this is smaller than the ~100 litre rum tank that Hugh had on his last boat (an Oyster 54 also called Nikitoo) but he felt that 100 litres was a little too much. I’m sure we would all agree that carrying around 70 litres of rum is much more reasonable.

OYSTER 625

Oyster 625-18 Nikitoo has been handed over to Hugh Johnson and his partner Mariana.

TO: BILL MAPSTONE

On a glorious day in the Solent with blue sky, bright sunshine and not a cloud in sight, Oyster 885-08 Ayni was handed over to Bill Mapstone. This is Bill's third Oyster having previously owned 82-06 and 82-17. Ayni is the first 885 with an 825 style Low Level Saloon whilst incorporating the Raised Deck. This in turn gives a headroom height in the saloon of almost eight feet. In keeping with styling of his previous Oysters, Bill chose a full teak interior and light coloured leather seating. He has also kept a traditional look with the hull being painted in a dark blue with gold lines. Sailing plans are to head across to the Caribbean before heading off into the Pacific.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 85

OYSTER 885

AYNI

OYSTER 575

Oyster 575-41 was handed over to her owners, Bruno and Myriam Claude in May.

WELCOME TO OYSTER CHARTER Oyster Charter is dedicated to matching client, yacht and crew solely aboard Oyster yachts, for the best of all tailored yacht holidays. Over the years Oyster Charter has organised many superb, bespoke charter holidays. With Oyster yachts spanning from 56 to 125ft (17-38m), we have an impressive fleet to offer the ultimate in flexibility to design the ideal Oyster Charter holiday for you. Whether you wish to cruise the Caribbean with friends, explore the most popular or secluded locations in the Mediterranean or enjoy the stunning east coast of America with your family, we have the right Oyster yacht and crew to meet your needs.

Oyster Charter Manager, Molly Marston, established Oyster Charter over ten years ago and having served as crew afloat for ten years prior to that, Molly is well-equipped to create the perfect charter for you. Molly will advise on location, boat and most importantly, ideal crew for your personal tastes and lifestyle. We operate not just as a broker but with the full support of Oyster Yachts and our famed global customer care.

With Oyster Charter you’re not on your own, you’re with the best.

oystercharter.com

86 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

// CHARTER FLEET

TWILIGHT // OYSTER 125 Year Built: 2012 Guests: 8

Winter: Caribbean from $80,000/wk Summer: Western Med from €80,000/wk

PENELOPE // OYSTER 100 Year Built: 2012 Guests: 6

FIREBIRD // OYSTER 885 Winter: Caribbean from $60,000/wk Summer: Western Med from €50,000/wk

LUSH // OYSTER 885 Year Built: 2012 Guests: 8

Year Built: 2016 Guests: 7

Winter: Norway Ski & Sail from €47,700/wk incl.

Summer: Croatia from €45,000/wk

AYNI // OYSTER 885 Winter: Caribbean from $45,000/wk

Year Built: 2017 Guests: 6

Winter: Caribbean from $42,000/wk

CONTACT // MOLLY MARSTON For more information about yachts available for charter contact Molly: T: +1 401 846 7400 M: +1 401 225 1216 E: charter@oysteryachts.com OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 87

// OYSTER // OYSTER MIDNIGHT XXX XX 82 Year Built: 2012 xx Guests: 6 x

DAMA DE NOCHE // OYSTER 82 Winter: Caribbean Winter: xxfrom $30,000/wk Summer:Summer: Western Med xxx from €29,000/wk

Year Built: 2008 Guests: 6

Winter: Caribbean from $30,000/wk Summer: US East Coast from $30,000/wk

BARE XXX //NECESSITIES OYSTER XX // OYSTER 82

GRAYCIOUS // OYSTER 745

Year Built: 2004 xx Guests: 6 x

Year Built: 2016 Guests: 6

Summer:Winter: Western xxMed from €24,000/wk Summer: xxx

Winter: Caribbean from $26,000/wk Summer: US East Coast from $26,000/wk

// OYSTER//XX LUSKENTYRE XXX OYSTER 72

OCEAN INDIES II // OYSTER 68

Year Built: 2005 xx Guests: 6 x

Year Built: 1989 Guests: 6

oystercharter.com

88 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

Winter: Caribbean Winter: xxfrom $23,000/wk Summer:Summer: Scotland xxx from €21,000/wk

Winter: Caribbean from $12,500/wk

// CHARTER FLEET

HURRAH // OYSTER 655 Year Built: 2010 Guests: 6

BLACK LION // OYSTER 625 Winter: Caribbean from $19,000/wk Summer: US East Coast from $19,000/wk

Year Built: 2012 Guests: 4 (6)

Winter: Caribbean from $18,000/wk Summer: US East Coast from $18,000/wk

Sistership BOARDING PASS IV // OYSTER 625

TIGER // OYSTER 625

Year Built: 2016 Guests: 4

Year Built: 2012 Guests: 4

Winter: Caribbean from $18,000/wk Summer: Western Med from €18,000/wk

IRENE III // OYSTER 575 Year Built: 2011 Guests: 4 (Captain only)

Summer: Croatia from €18,000/wk

AMANZI // OYSTER 56 Winter: Caribbean from $7,000/wk Summer: Palma Mallorca from €7,000/wk

Year Built: 2009 Guests: 4

Winter: Caribbean from $12,000/wk Summer: Western Med from €9,000/wk

CONTACT // MOLLY MARSTON For more information about yachts available for charter contact Molly: T: +1 401 846 7400 M: +1 401 225 1216 E: c harter@oysteryachts.com OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 89

INTRODUCING OYSTER CREW We are pleased to announce the launch of our new crew search and placement service Oyster Crew. After over 40 years of successfully finding and placing crew on Oysters, we recognise the importance in this legislative climate, of formally regulating the recruitment process within Oyster for crews and owners alike. Charlie Durham in our Palma office, will be in charge of the dayto-day running of the crew service for Oyster Yachts. Charlie is already talking to owners and crews and compiling a large database of good Oyster Crew candidates for you.

FINDING THE RIGHT CREW FOR YOU In order for us to place the right crew for you, we need to know as much as possible about you, your yacht, your expectations and your plans. We spend time getting to know our crews and will only forward a small selection of candidates that we feel are more suited to you. Candidates are interviewed face-to-face where possible, references and qualifications are checked prior to forwarding so we can make an informed evaluation of personality and capabilities. In many cases we will know the candidates from previous Oyster Crew positions, so it is quite likely that we know your crew before you even start looking for them.

CAPTAIN’S ENDORSEMENT BY PANTAENIUS To further alleviate the work for you, Oyster are working alongside Pantaenius insurers who have agreed to assess the Captains on our database. Therefore, any Captain we recommend has already been pre-approved for Pantaenius insurance policy purposes to work on your yacht.

NO PLACEMENT NO FEE With regard to placing crew on board your yacht, Oyster Crew will charge a placement fee of one month’s salary of the crew placed. This is the standard industry wide and wholly justified by the work that goes into the selection process prior to you receiving the candidate’s CVs.

MLC 2006 COMPLIANCE Oyster Crew is an MCA certified Recruitment and Placement Agency.

The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) is an International Labour Organization convention established in 2006 providing a set of international standards for seafarers. We work within these MLC guidelines to ensure that crew are fully aware of their rights as a professional seafarer.

If you would like our help to find your next crew, or if you are crew seeking work on an Oyster yacht, Charlie Durham is happy to help with your enquiries.

E: crew@oysteryachts.com M: +34 619 147 056

oysteryachts.com/crew

OYSTER BROKERAGE LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL? If you are looking to buy or sell a pre-owned Oyster, look no further.

Experience Most buyers will contact us first when looking for a pre-owned Oyster yacht.

Established in 1984, we have sold more than five hundred yachts, we sell the vast majority of pre-owned Oysters that change hands each year.

Knowledge As Oyster specialists our knowledge is unsurpassed. We have access to original build files, designers, project managers, and build yards, which enables us to produce comprehensive and detailed sales specifications, greatly enhancing the marketing of your yacht.

International Reach We have established offices in the UK at Ipswich, in Palma, Mallorca in Spain, and at Newport, Rhode Island, USA. We also work closely with the Oyster team in Australia and a network of external brokers, giving us a worldwide presence.

Marketing A virtual tour of the Oyster yacht can feature on the website, enabling visitors to look inside the yacht online, no matter where they are in the world. Most of our sales enquiries come from our own website oysterbrokerage.com, but we also advertise in leading global yachting magazines and on key brokerage websites, free of charge to you.

Insight Our extensive database of worldwide buyers allows us to carefully target our marketing – we probably already know the next owner of your yacht!

Boat Shows As well as being present at the most important international boat shows in Europe and the USA, we also run our own exclusive Oyster Brokerage Boat Show annually in Ipswich each May. Yacht Care At our Palma office we are able to offer berthing and guardienage packages via the Oyster Service Centre Palma, whilst in Ipswich we maintain a permanent display of pre-owned Oyster boats, with full storage and guardienage services to ensure that your yacht is presented to the market in the best possible condition.

Expertise We will manage the entire sale process on your behalf, from initial listing through to final completion. We provide expert support throughout the sale process and afterwards, including negotiation, contracts, survey, sea trial and documentation and post completion handover if required. Funds are held in our dedicated client (escrow) account. We are also happy to provide guidance on registration, tax, duty, VAT, finance and refit.

The Oyster Brokerage team would be delighted to discuss your plans with no obligation.

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 91

OUR WORLDWIDE EXPERTISE

E D R U M B L E // N E W P O R T U S A

“The process of buying a yacht overseas was a new adventure for me and I am grateful for the expertise and experience of the Oyster team. My first meeting with the broker in Newport was followed by a short trip to Palma to sea trial and survey. Negotiations with the UK based seller were handled smoothly and professionally and a transaction that could have been very difficult was a breeze. After closing, the Oyster Service Centre helped look after the yacht until she was passaged to the US, where she has now joined the Oyster Charter fleet. A truly comprehensive and international service. I could not be happier with the entire purchase experience, Oyster’s very professional staff and most importantly, my new Oyster.”

92 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

// BROKERAGE L O U I S G O O R // I P S W I C H

“We were looking for a family cruising yacht, and had requested the details of a number of Oysters online before flying to the UK to view a specific Oyster 575 in Ipswich that had caught my eye several years previously when written up in Yachting World. From the initial viewing, to making an offer, and throughout the survey and sea trial, Oyster Brokerage were friendly, professional and made the whole process straightforward and very enjoyable.”

M I K E K E A R N E Y // P A L M A

“Buying a boat abroad is never a straightforward exercise and plenty of trusted help and guidance is needed throughout. Our search initiated with the Ipswich office and was seamlessly managed with the Palma team as we narrowed to boats in both locations. The local knowledge and on hand capabilities of both teams was key in ultimately sealing the deal and managing the considerable logistics of the closure. The Palma team in particular were also able to assemble and manage the final package of her relocation, berth, guardienage and critically, the post purchase refit, all under a single project manager. This ultimately gave us the confidence to proceed. It's been a fantastic first year with our Oyster 56 Sionna, with the Service and Guardienage teams in Palma making possible more use than we had even dreamed.”

UK, IPSWICH T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 brokerage@oysteryachts.com

USA, NEWPORT T: +1 401 846 7400 newport@oysteryachts.com

SPAIN, PALMA T: +34 677 429 116 palma-brokerage@oysteryachts.com

oysterbrokerage.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 93

NEW LISTING

OYSTER 100 2011 OYSTER 100 // SARAFIN The elegant Oyster 100 Sarafin by Dubois, is now offered for sale for the first time. Still in her original ownership, Sarafin has been cruised extensively by her owner, family and friends. She has recently completed her five year Lloyd’s survey.

Sarafin is the first in class and designed with the specification, features and classification of a much larger yacht. Her accommodation layout offers three sumptuous staterooms aft and two crew cabins forward. With panoramic views from the raised saloon, which leads forward and down to a further lounge and office area. Forward of the main living area is the crew mess, galley and two crew cabins. She is a near silent vessel under power even when running a generator thanks to her soft mounted interior.

Sarafin couldn’t be in a finer condition since her launch. Extensively upgraded and professionally maintained regardless of cost she is fully Lloyd’s and MCA compliant and ready for private use or charter.

Lying: Oyster Palma

94 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

€6,950,000 ex VAT

NEW LISTING

Launched in 2013, Oyster 885 Karibu is in exceptional condition. Extensively detailed for an owner intent on both performance and cruising with a high level of comfort, her specification is as impressive as her success in meeting these demanding objectives.

Lying: Oyster Palma

€5,750,000 VAT paid

2017 OYSTER 825 // CINDERELLA Launched in January 2017 and for sale due to change of sailing plans, Cinderella has a high specification and beautifully styled interior reaching the height of luxury without compromising performance. Ideal for ocean cruising and Superyacht regattas.

Lying: Hamble, Southampton

£4,900,000 ex VAT

NEW LISTING

2015 OYSTER 825 // MAEGAN Winner of the 2016 International Yacht Interior Design Award. Her use to date has been a mix of successful charter, regatta sailing and family cruising. Her interior offers Superyacht accommodation, boasting four VIP en-suite cabins and the adaptability to meet the demanding requirements of multiple use.

Lying: Oyster Palma

UK, IPSWICH T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 brokerage@oysteryachts.com

£4,000,000 VAT paid

USA, NEWPORT T: +1 401 846 7400 newport@oysteryachts.com

SPAIN, PALMA T: +34 677 429 116 palma-brokerage@oysteryachts.com

oysterbrokerage.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 95

OYSTER 885 - 825

2013 OYSTER 885 // KARIBU

OYSTER 82

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED

2012 OYSTER 82 // RAVEN

2009 OYSTER 82 // RIVENDELL

Absolutely stunning 82 with black hull and spars. Five cabins finished in exquisite maple joinery with contrasting walnut fiddles and cabin soles.

Her push-button hydraulic furling rig makes her easy to handle. She is ready to go sailing.

Magnificently maintained, constantly upgraded with modernised, tasteful interior. Clean, functional deck boasts a cleverly devised foredeck lounge. Trusted hull design, unique carbon spars, slab reefing and hydraulic furling make for a proficient passage maker and easy to handle whatever the weather.

Lying: West Mediterranean

Lying: En route to Caribbean

£2,925,000 VAT paid

£2,750,000 ex VAT

2011 OYSTER 82 // MATHILDA SOUND

2007 OYSTER 82 // RAVENOUS II

Stunningly presented 82. Maple and walnut stylish interior giving a modern feel. Proven charter history and ideal family cruiser. Six guests in three cabins plus three crew. Sail plan allows for short-handed sailing. Professionally maintained since launch. Viewing highly recommended.

Lively performance rig for the racecourse, shallow draft for exploring, 13 berths for a large cruising family. Built in gorgeous light maple for an American yachtsman as flagship of the Oyster fleet. No expense was spared.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Oyster Newport , US

£2,500,000 VAT paid

US $1,995,000 US DUTY PAID

NEW LISTING

2006 OYSTER 82 // TILLY MINT

2004 OYSTER 82 // DARLING

An impressive yacht with beautiful mahogany joinery giving a luxurious feel below decks. Superb raised saloon and berths for up to 13 in five cabins. Straightforward to sail with push-button hydraulic sail handling.

Well maintained and attractively priced.

Highly specified ocean-ready 82 with flag blue hull, carbon cutter rig, carbon in-boom main, stunning cherry interior and loaded with extras. Major refit at Oyster Southampton 2013-2014 with new rigging, paint job, new decks and more. Realistically priced and turnkey condition.

Lying: Valencia, Spain

Lying: Oyster Newport, US

96 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

£1,395,000 VAT paid

US $1,800,000 US DUTY PAID

$800,000+ OYSTER SOUTHAMPTON REFIT IN 2015

2011 OYSTER 725 // SPIRIT OF PHANTOM

2015 Oyster Southampton refit, major upgrades include new electronics and new decks. Shoal draft, push-button sailing, palatial owners' head with full bathtub and bidet give a true Superyacht ambience.

Professionally-crewed and ready for charter.

One owner, one crew. Professionally and beautifully maintained with stunning lines and a superb accommodation plan - ten berths in four cabins. Powerful performer with fully battened main and carbon spars. Perfect solution for pleasurable cruising with charter potential.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Caribbean

US $1,750,000 ex VAT

€3,150,000 ex VAT

PRICE REDUCED

PRICE REDUCED

2011 OYSTER 72 // INFINITI OF COWES

2010 OYSTER 72 // ALBERTONE 3

Stunning Oyster 72. Beautiful maple joinery and huge specification. This yacht is in superior condition and includes new standing rigging. Recently serviced and inspected throughout. Infiniti is in turnkey condition and ready for handover to a new owner.

Exceptional example of the elegant Oyster 72, AlbertOne3 is a beautifully cared for, sleek and luxurious cruising yacht. One owner since new and professionally maintained to an exacting standard by a fantastic crew.

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: Oyster Palma

£1,550,000 VAT paid

£1,650,000 ex VAT

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED

2007 OYSTER 72 // SOLITAIRE OF BOSHAM

2005 OYSTER 72 // CRAZY HORSE

Built with a breathtaking attention to detail by experienced owner, Solitaire boasts sleek modern lines and a clutter-free feel. Class-leading, beautifully proportioned and practical interior. Performance wise the 72 is hard to beat. Currently used for family cruising and some charter.

Unique carbon Oyster 72. Designed for fast, comfortable cruising plus occasional racing. Extensive refit in 2015 adding double forecabin, new decks and more. Viewing recommended to understand extent and quality of refit of this intriguing yacht. Owner needs to sell - offers encouraged.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Gibraltar

UK, IPSWICH T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 brokerage@oysteryachts.com

£1,485,000 VAT paid

USA, NEWPORT T: +1 401 846 7400 newport@oysteryachts.com

SPAIN, PALMA T: +34 677 429 116 palma-brokerage@oysteryachts.com

€1,250,000 ex VAT

oysterbrokerage.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 97

OYSTER 82 - 72

2005 OYSTER 82 // PANDEMONIUM

NEW LISTING

OYSTER 68 - 655

1991 OYSTER HP68 // IN THE MOOD II

2000 OYSTER 66 // ANNACAY

Recently circumnavigated Australia. Fully battened mainsail for performance and reliability, whilst her headsails furl hydraulically. Below decks she has light oak joinery and sleeps ten in five cabins. Lying in New Zealand, she is ideally placed for exploring the South Pacific.

A mini Superyacht with superb upper and lower saloons. Hydraulic furling to her mainsail and headsails gives push-button sailing. Ten berths in five cabins, all finished in handcrafted light oak. A comfortable home for long distance bluewater cruising.

Lying: New Zealand

Lying: East Mediterranean

AUD $875,000 ex VAT

£975,000 VAT paid

UNDER OFFER

2005 OYSTER 66 // VALENTINE

2008 OYSTER 655 // ROCAS

Last Oyster 66 built. Ocean-ready cutter rig offers effortless push-button sailing with in-mast furling hydraulic main and furling headsails. Fully equipped for extended voyaging with all creature comforts. Recently proven circumnavigator and ready to go again.

Powerfully rigged with fully battened mainsail, black carbon mast and V-boom.

Superb teak interior joinery with ivory leather upholstery give a luxurious feel, she sleeps nine in four cabins. Comprehensively equipped and in the UK to be sold.

Lying: Oyster Newport, US

Lying: Oyster UK

US $895,000 US DUTY PAID

£1,250,000 ex VAT

2008 OYSTER 655 // MATAWAI

2008 OYSTER 655 // PROTEUS

Impeccably maintained and presented in A+ condition, Matawai is freshly refit with cutting edge communications upgrades and more.

Reduced price and lying in Newport Rhode Island. Perfect gentleman’s Bermuda racer.

One of the most luxuriously appointed Oysters ever built, she has custom Harken deck gear and carbon spars by Hall. Shoal keel reduces draft to 7’ 3”, enabling her to access anchorages normally unavailable.

Lying: Oyster Newport , US

Lying: Caribbean

98 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

US $1,650,000 US DUTY PAID

US $1,550,000 US DUTY PAID

PRICE REDUCED

2009 OYSTER 655 // ISNL

2009 OYSTER 655 // GUNDAMAIN

This fine example has been professionally maintained to very high standards and seen extensive service and upgrades. Her light, homely interior is accented

by Farrow and Ball red bulkhead in the saloon. Shorthanded capability with in-mast furling and cutter rig enabling safe cruising to anywhere.

Impeccably maintained, Gundamain shows exceedingly well both above and below decks.

Highly specified for either tropical cruising and arctic adventures. Carbon cutter rig with slab reefing mainsail. Luxurious cherry joinery. In turnkey condition and priced to sell.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Oyster Palma

£1,150,000 ex VAT

£995,000 ex VAT UNDER OFFER

2013 OYSTER 625 // GREAT BEAR V

2013 OYSTER 625 // KATHARA

Superb 625, sailed only in European waters and never chartered. Maple joinery and walnut sole boards give a bright modern feel below decks. Push-button hydraulic furling cutter rig make her easy to handle. Beautifully presented and highly recommended.

Young and lightly used 625 with centreboard, twin rudders, stern thruster and three double cabin layout including VIP forward. In-mast furling and loaded with options, built for a very experienced three-time Oyster owner.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Cruising SE US

£1,550,000 VAT paid

US $1,795,000 US DUTY PAID

2011 OYSTER 625 // BLUE JEANNIE

2001 OYSTER 62 // PEARLFISHER

A stunning yacht with maple joinery and triple seascape windows in the saloon. Simple sloop rig with furling mainsail and genoa. Ten berths in five cabins, enabling private or charter use. Owner has his eye on his next Oyster.

An ARC class winner and powerful performer with taller carbon rig and fully battened mainsail, she has nonetheless proved to be a capable and comfortable cruiser, visiting some of the most inaccessible places on the planet. Superbly maintained.

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: UK South Coast

£1,195,000 VAT paid

SPAIN, PALMA T: +34 677 429 116 palma-brokerage@oysteryachts.com

oysterbrokerage.com

UK, IPSWICH T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 brokerage@oysteryachts.com

£1,200,000 ex VAT

USA, NEWPORT T: +1 401 846 7400 newport@oysteryachts.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 99

OYSTER 655 - 62

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED

OYSTER 62 - 56

2007 OYSTER 62 // GALLOPER OF HAMBURG

2001 OYSTER 62 // LOBLOLLY

Very lightly used, this Oyster 62 presents very well. Beautiful maple interior and very highly specified, push-button sailing. Skipper maintained from new and never chartered.

Maintained regardless of cost. Viewing highly recommended.

Extensive refit in 2015, with over $400K in recent improvements. Shoal draft of 6’7” opens the door to exploring shallow waters other yachts in this size could only dream of voyaging; The Chesapeake, Bahamas, Florida and parts of the Caribbean and Pacific are now well within reach. Turnkey.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Cruising SE US

£1,150,000 VAT paid

US $1,095,000 US DUTY PAID

UNDER OFFER

NEW LISTING

UNDER OFFER

2014 OYSTER 575 // SILVER LINING

2010 OYSTER 575 // JUNO

2010 OYSTER 56 // ENJOY LIFE

In fabulous condition. Loved and cruised by original owners. Beautiful maple joinery and impressive Seascape vertical windows provide a light, warm, comfortable interior. Proven cruiser with regatta success and effortless passage making capability. Viewing highly recommended.

Must-see example. Travelled extensively but presents as new. Stunning white oak interior offers seven berths in four cabins. Well maintained with beneficial owner upgrades. Easy to use sail plan allows for short-handed sailing anywhere. Only selling due to a change of plans.

Enjoy Life, the last of the iconic 56s. Built for exploring in comfort and safety, she is probably the highest specified 56 ever launched. In turnkey condition, she is ready to go.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Oyster Palma

£1,150,000 VAT paid

£950,000 VAT paid

£700,000 VAT paid

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

2007 OYSTER 56 // AMANZI

2007 OYSTER 56 // OYSTER BAY

2004 OYSTER 56 // ICHI FEET

Amanzi is a 'G5' Oyster 56. Particularly appealing to the enthusiastic yachtsman thanks to her cutter rig and fully battened mainsail, the ideal set up for world cruising. Amanzi has just completed a comprehensive refit in Southampton.

Superb late model 'G5' Oyster 56 with in-mast furling mainsail cutter rig, ideal for short-handed cruising. White hull with handcrafted, crown cut teak joinery. Eight berths in four cabins. Early viewing recommended.

One of the finest examples of an Oyster 56 on brokerage. Careful engineer-owner has kept an exacting maintenance log since launch. The 56 offers unbeatable comfort, safety and practicality and is easy to handle by two from the safety of the cockpit.

Lying: West Mediterranean

Lying: East Mediterranean

Lying: Oyster Palma

100 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

£599,000 VAT paid

£595,000 ex VAT

£535,000 VAT paid

NEW LISTING

1998 OYSTER 56 // PARAGON BAY

1986 OYSTER 55 // ICENIC

Easy to handle 56 with push-button hydraulic in-mast and genoa furling. Maple interior joinery below where she sleeps seven in four cabins, with a further sea berth possible in the saloon. Well equipped.

Hydraulic furling cutter rig and light oak joinery below decks where she sleeps seven in four cabins.

Re-engined in 2008, she had a refit in 2012, which included mast respray, new sails, heating, rigging and more.

Icenic is a great example of the Oyster 55, with many recent upgrades of her electrical and mechanical systems. She is ready to tackle the southern ocean or cruise in comfort around the Mediterranean.

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: West Mediterranean

£420,000 ex VAT

£400,000 VAT paid

£195,000 VAT paid

NEW LISTING

PRICE REDUCED

2010 OYSTER 54 // SARA BLUE V

2008 OYSTER 54 // PLAN SEA

2005 OYSTER 53 // BALTHAZAR

Well maintained since launch with sumptious cherry joinery below decks. Highly specified and stunning 54 with sloop rig and electric in-mast furling for easy push-button sailing. Ready to set sail.

Attractive blue hulled 54, with easily handled sloop rig featuring electric in-mast furling. New sails and many upgrades. Accommodation is finished in oak, with three cabins, sleeping six.

Mediterranean sailed example with low engine hours.

Slab reefing with lines led aft to the cockpit. Teak joinery below where she sleeps eight in four cabins.

Owners’ stateroom has two generous singles, and there is an armchair in the saloon!

Lying: Oyster Palma

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: Oyster Palma

£595,000 ex VAT

£540,000 VAT paid

€395,000 VAT paid

PRICE REDUCED

PRICE REDUCED

2001 OYSTER 53 // CONTINGENCY

2000 OYSTER 53 // SLEIPNIR

2003 OYSTER 53 // JARINA

Very desirable Oyster 53 built to very high specification for hands-on American owner. Maintained by a full time professional captain and boasting a successful charter history, has an ocean-going cutter rig, classic teak interior and easy-to-handle in-mast furling.

An ideal family cruising yacht with eight berths in four cabins. Her in-mast furling cutter rig is versatile and easy to handle. Crown cut teak joinery below decks provide a warm and contemporary feel.

Jarina is a very well specified bluewater cruiser, ready to explore the world’s oceans and anchorages.

Her layout comprises six berths in three cabins, with ample storage and an electric furling rig.

Lying: Cruising SE US

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: Oyster UK

US $450,000 US DUTY PAID

UK, IPSWICH T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 brokerage@oysteryachts.com

USA, NEWPORT T: +1 401 846 7400 newport@oysteryachts.com

£330,000 VAT paid

SPAIN, PALMA T: +34 677 429 116 palma-brokerage@oysteryachts.com

£295,000 ex VAT

oysterbrokerage.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 101

OYSTER 56 - 53

2005 OYSTER 56 // ANN MARY

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

OYSTER 485 - 43

1995 OYSTER 485 // OUT ON THE BLUE

2000 OYSTER 47 // OYSTER CRACKER

2001 OYSTER 47 // OYSTER MOON

A twice proven circumnavigator. Simple sloop rig with in-mast furling mainsail and furling genoa. Fridge/ freezer, washer/dryer, watermaker and generator.

She sleeps six in three cabins, with light oak joinery giving a light and airy feel.

Rare cutter-rigged Oyster 47, which, when combined with in-mast furling, gives her a versatile and easily handled sail plan. Accommodation for six in three cabins, with a light and airy feel below decks.

Late model 47, easy to handle with in-mast furling mainsail, furling genoa, and electric primary and secondary winches. With an extensive list of optional equipment, she sleeps six in three cabins, and her joinery is in light oak.

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: Caribbean

Lying: Oyster UK

£215,000 VAT paid

£295,000 VAT paid

£275,000 VAT paid

NEW LISTING

UNDER OFFER

2000 OYSTER 47 // CRAZY DIAMOND

2009 OYSTER 46 // HULL 20

2008 OYSTER 46 // MARMAX

Well presented Oyster 47 with lovely oak joinery sleeping six in three cabins. She has the optional larger engine with shaft drive. Her sporty rig has a slab reefing mainsail which is tamed for shorthanded sailing by lazyjacks, stack pack and single line reefing.

Beautiful and lightly used 46 with less than 600 engine hours. Almost as new with unmarked light oak joinery. She sleeps six in three cabins. Sloop rigged with electric in-mast furling to the mainsail make her easy to handle.

Winner of the Concours d’Elégance at the 2009 Oyster Palma Regatta, Marmax is a beautiful example of the Oyster 46, professionally maintained and presented in superb condition. Fully battened mainsail, generator, airconditioning, heating, radar/chartplotter and oak interior.

Lying: Oyster UK

Lying: UK South Coast

Lying: West Mediterranean

£285,000 VAT paid

£485,000 VAT paid

NEW LISTING

£465,000 VAT paid

UNDER OFFER

Sistership

2001 OYSTER 45 // IONA BESS

2006 OYSTER LD43 // RIP RAP

2007 OYSTER LD43 // SISU

Late model, low mileage Oyster 45, which is comprehensively equipped for shorthanded ocean sailing. Simple sloop rig with in-mast furling and electric genoa furling. Lovely teak interior joinery below decks, where she sleeps six in three cabins.

Offering excellent high-speed sea keeping abilities that make for effortless long distance cruising, the twin water jet computer controlled propulsion system enables astonishing manoeuvrability. This particular example has been maintained to exacting standards.

Equipped with twin 480hp Yanmar engines and Hamilton Jet drives, this is a fast and easy boat to manoeuvre. Equipment includes air conditioning, generator and separate heating to name a few.

Beautifully maintained since her launch in 2007.

Lying: UK South Coast

Lying: Italy

Lying: Guernsey

102 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

£265,000 VAT paid

£239,000 VAT paid

£225,000 VAT paid

OUR REGATTA PARTNERS We are grateful to our regatta partners for the ongoing support that they provide, enabling us to create memorable events for our owners.

Established over 50 years ago in the UK, Dolphin Sails has been creating bespoke quality sails and canvas work ever since.

Leading sailboat and powerboat hardware supplier for the leisure marine industry.

For 40 years Pantaenius has been providing optimal coverage for your yacht, your assets and your paid crew.

Matthew Vincent T: +44 (0) 1255 243 366 E: sails@dolphin-sails.com www.dolphinsails.com

Roger Cerrato T: +44 (0) 23 9247 1841 E: rcerrato@lewmar.com www.lewmar.com

Simon Bowen T: +44 (0) 1752 223 656 E: info@pantaenius.co.uk www.pantaenius.co.uk

International yacht consultants specialising in global yacht management and services.

The world’s leading manufacturer of recreational marine electronics.

Declan O’Sullivan T: +44 (0) 1624 819 867 E: dos@pelagosyachts.com www.pelagosyachts.com

Harry Heasman T: +44 (0) 1329 246 832 E: harry.heasman@raymarine.com www.raymarine.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 103

WROXHAM SOUTHAMPTON

WROXHAM WROXHAM

SOUTHAMPTON SOUTHAMPTON

IPSWICH RUSSIA IPSWICH

NEWPORT NEWPORT NEWPORT

GERMANY IPSWICH PALMA PALMA PALMA

OYSTER BROKERAGE OYSTER CHARTER OYSTER CREW OYSTER YACHT BUILDING YARDS OYSTER SERVICE CENTRE OYSTER INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

104 / OYSTER ISSUE 80

RUSSIA

// CONTACT US OYSTER YACHTS // UK

OYSTER SERVICE CENTRES

General Enquiries T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1000 E: enquiry@oysteryachts.com

OYSTER YACHTS // IPSWICH Oli Brett T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 E: ipswich-service@oysteryachts.com

New Yacht Sales Enquiries T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1010 E: sales@oysteryachts.com Customer Service Enquiries T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1005 E: customerservice@oysteryachts.com OYSTER YACHTS // USA New Yacht Sales Enquiries T: +1 401 846 7400 E: newport@oysteryachts.com

OYSTER YACHTS // NEWPORT Will White T: +1 401 846 7400 E: newport@oysteryachts.com OYSTER YACHTS // PALMA Mark Durham T: +34 971 287 474 E: palma-service@oysteryachts.com OYSTER YACHTS // SOUTHAMPTON Mandy Boughton T: +44 (0) 23 8033 5266 E: southampton-service@oysteryachts.com

OYSTER REPRESENTATIVES

UK: T: +44 (0) 23 8083 1011 PALMA: T: +34 677 429 116 USA: T: +1 401 846 7400 E: brokerage@oysteryachts.com W: oysterbrokerage.com

Molly Marston T: +1 401 846 7400 E: charter@oysteryachts.com W: oystercharter.com

AUSTRALIA Charlie Durham T: +34 619 147 056 E: crew@oysteryachts.com

OYSTER YACHTS // AUSTRALIA Michael Bell T: +61 414 259 688 E: australia-sales@oysteryachts.com OYSTER YACHTS // GERMANY Christian Russwurm T: +49 162 987 0310 E: germany-sales@oysteryachts.com

Matthew Townsend T: +44 (0) 23 8033 6011 E: projects@oysteryachts.com

Twitter: @oysteryachts Instagram: @oysteryachts Facebook: /oystermarine YouTube: /oystermarine Website: oysteryachts.com

OYSTER ISSUE 80 / 105

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